Arizona joined the states asking CDC for laboratory testing for Enterovirus D68 on Friday.  We’ve had an increase in the number of children hospitalized and treated for upper respiratory illness.  Enterovirus is in the family with the common cold and illness is usually limited to cold symptoms (stuffy or runny nose and cough).  There seem to be groups of children who need more intense care because of difficulty breathing…most of them have asthma or another respiratory condition, but not all.  The CDC sent out information about specific outbreaks in two states earlier this week in a special Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

We work with our local public health partners to monitor for any outbreaks.   We will continue to stay in contact with local health offices, doctors and hospitals across the state to monitor for any changes.

In the meantime, you can help prevent the spread of Enterovirus and lots of other illnesses – keep your kids home when they’re sick, cover your coughs and sneezes, and wash your hands regularly and well.