Serving Proudly As The Voice Of Valley County Since 1913

2 Respiratory Virus Cases In Montana

Parents and kids both brace for the spreading viruses that occur every year when school starts. Two cases have been confirmed for the Enterovirus D68 that has been spreading around the country. The case in Montana was involving a child under the age of 10 from Yellowstone County and the second one was confirmed in Cascade County earlier this week.

The outbreak of the virus has been reported in 27 states, such as Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, New York, Colorado, Nebraska, Louisiana and Alabama. Other states were added to the list as the cold and flu season has continued.

More than 170 cases have been confirmed, but the Centers for Disease Control has reported that the number is probably higher as most people recover without treatment.

Reports of the illness started to be investigated by the CDC in mid-August. A real risk is with children with breathing problems, such as asthma. Some of the symptoms are much like the common cold. Victims of the virus might cough, sneeze and have a runny nose. Most children have mild symptoms.

Valley County Health Department Director Connie Boreson said protecting yourself from the virus leads to good hygiene. Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds, avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, avoid sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick, and be sure to disinfect toys and other hard surfaces. Be sure to keep children home that are sick.

 

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