What is enterovirus and how it affects children

Enterovirus is a viral disease that usually attacks the digestive system or the respiratory system. It is not a serious illness. However, in some cases (especially in young children), it may be aggravated. This is the case, for example, of children with asthma. How enterovirus affects children There

Enterovirus is a viral disease that usually attacks the digestive system or the respiratory system. It is not a serious illness. However, in some cases (especially in young children), it may be aggravated. This is the case, for example, of children with asthma.

How enterovirus affects children

There are up to tipos 60 different types of enteroviruses . Some of them cause diseases as well known as conjunctivitis, polio or encephalitis.Enterovirus D68

, one of the most frequent enteroviruses,affects mainly the respiratory system , but it can affect the motor system. It is transmitted through saliva, sweat or nasal fluids. That is, it can be spread by coughing, sneezing or by being near an infected person.In the case of adults, it is not serious, but if it affects babies or small children, the symptoms can be aggravated, especially in the case of children with asthma. The enterovirus is diagnosed by analyzing fluid taken from the throat or nose.

Enterovirus symptoms in children

Enterovirus D68

can present respiratory symptoms very similar to those of influenza. They tend to be mild, but if they get worse, they may need hospitalization. Rarely, neurological problems also occur. Among the main symptoms that can occur with this disease, are the following: - Drowsiness, decay

- Tremors and joint pain

- Mild fever

- Wheezing (with whistles)

- Limphocytic meningintis

Treatment and prevention of enterovirus in children

Being a very contagious virus, the best form of prevention is

through scrupulous hygiene measures . Above all it is essential to wash your hands very well with soap and water. If the child begins to present symptoms of enterovirus, it is advisable not to take him to the nursery or school.Enterovirus is the second cause of viral diseases after the viruses that cause colds. As in almost all cases of viral diseases,

there is no treatment . The disease will disappear on its own. In the case of children with aggravated respiratory symptoms, they probably need hospital care.