‘Mystery’ Respiratory Virus Spreads Across Several US States

Reuters/Mohamed Alhwaity

A mysterious respiratory virus, similar to the common cold but far more pernicious, is affecting thousands across 10 US states – hospitalizing hundreds of children, affecting those with asthma or those under the age of 5.

The disease has yet to be officially identified, but officials suspect it is the rare respiratory virus called human enterovirus 68. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention said the virus is related to the rhinovirus, which is what causes the common cold.

Enterovirus 68 causes respiratory illness in children. It can attack the central nervous system and cause paralysis or even death.

Some US states are reporting 70 new cases a day including Kansas, Illinois, Ohio, and Indiana, but Colorado and Missouri have been hit the hardest, according to a local media report.

There is no vaccine for human enterovirus 68 according to Missouri health officials, adding “there is also no specific treatment for the virus.”

Since the virus is not treatable with antibiotics, doctors have been giving patients steroids and medication to help improve breathing. Respiratory problems seem to be the most threatening symptom, and some children and teenagers are being put in intensive care, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.