EV-D68 Infection: Children at Highest Risk

Epidemiology

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) primarily affects children. According to CDC surveillance data, the median age of confirmed cases is approximately 4 years old.

Clinical Context

• EV-D68 causes respiratory illness ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe asthma exacerbations and acute flaccid myelitis (AFM).
• Children with asthma or reactive airway disease are at higher risk for severe lower respiratory involvement.
• No specific antiviral or vaccine exists; management is supportive.

Healthcare providers should consider EV-D68 in children presenting with unexplained severe respiratory illness, especially during late summer/fall peaks.