Quebec on alert as enterovirus D-68 moves into Canada
CBC News | Posted: September 16, 2014 3:34 PM | Last Updated: September 17, 2014
Respiratory distress hallmark of enterovirus that has sent hundreds of American children to hospital
Quebec's hospitals and public health agencies are keeping a watchful eye on enterovirus D-68, a respiratory illness that can be particularly dangerous for young people with asthma.
There are no confirmed cases in Quebec so far, however, the virus that has made hundreds of children in the U.S. sick has arrived in Canada.
Eighteen children in Alberta are confirmed to be infected with enterovirus D-68.
- Rare respiratory illness sends hundreds of kids in U.S. to hospital
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- Enterovirus D-68 could be cause of surge of admissions at Ontario hospital
Dr. Caroline Quach, a pediatric infectious disease consultant at the Montreal Children's Hospital, said this year the hospital has seen double the number of enterovirus cases than there were at this time last year.
Quach said it’s unusual to see so many infections at this time of year, adding that 120 children so far have tested positive for enterovirus — but none so far for enterovirus D-68.
"There are over 100 enteroviruses that can cause disease," Quach said.
Early signs look a lot like a cold, but doctors say there's no need to worry at first.
They advise parents to take their children to the emergency room if their breathing is affected. That can be a sign of D-68.
"There's less fever and a greater propensity to cause acute respiratory deterioration, mainly in children with underlying asthma or other respiratory conditions," Quach said.
Quebec is ready, health ministry says
Quebec Health Minister Gaétan Barrette says the province is ready if D-68 comes here next.
"With that kind of virus, often we have to treat in hospital but we are well prepared everywhere to face that," he said.
Quebec daycare operators say they're also ready to help stop the spread of viruses by having plastic gloves and hand sanitizer at every entrance.
"We already max out all the measures that there are to take but we'll be more vigilant to keep our eyes out for the symptoms however, and keep the parents informed," said Gina Gasparini, president of Quebec's association of public daycares.
Health officials are reminding parents to wash their hands — make sure their children wash their hands frequently — and disinfect toys, surfaces and doorknobs.