4 More Cases Of Enterovirus D68 Confirmed In New Jersey
TRENTON, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Health officials said four more New Jersey children have confirmed cases of enterovirus D68.
The new cases involve patients from Burlington County, which has two cases, and Camden and Morris counties. Three confirmed cases were previously announced in Essex, Passaic and Sussex counties.
All seven children have been released from the hospital and are recovering. Their names haven't been disclosed, but they range in age from 1 to 9.
EXTRA: Enterovirus D68: What Every Parent Should Know
Health Commissioner Mary O'Dowd advises parents and health care providers to be aware of symptoms that include cough, runny nose, sneezing and muscle aches and possibly a low-grade fever.
"Parents and caregivers should be aware that children with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions, such as asthma, may experience severe complications and require hospitalization with supportive therapy," O'Dowd said in a statement.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 472 cases of enterovirus D68 have been confirmed in 41 states and the District of Columbia since mid-August, including in New York and Connecticut.
The New York State Health Department warned last week that the virus was spreading and urged New Yorkers to take steps to prevent new infections. Cases have been confirmed in New York City, Long Island and Westchester County, among other parts of the state.
Earlier this week, the CDC confirmed three more cases of the virus in Connecticut, bringing the total in the state to at least 10.
Meanwhile in Rhode Island, state health officials said a 10-year-old has died from complications of enterovirus D68.
The Rhode Island Health Department announced Wednesday that the child died last week of a staph infection associated with the virus, which it called "a very rare combination.''
The virus is spread through contact with an infected person or via contaminated surfaces. Health officials say enteroviruses are common, but the strain of D68 is less common.
There are no specific treatments for the virus, but there are things you can do to protect yourself and others:
-- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
-- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
-- Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick.
-- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
For more information on enterovirus D68 from the CDC, click here.
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