More than 500 cases of enterovirus 68 infections have been documented in the last few months in different states across the United States. At least four deaths have already been reported and health officials across the country are becoming increasingly concerned that more cases could arise.
In the state of Nevada, there are still no confirmed cases of infection with this strain of the virus but health officials here are already carrying out testing programs that are designed to track down the virus in the event that it manifests in the area. Brian Labus, senior epidemiologist from from the Southern Nevada Health District said, "We're still looking for it. We just haven't identified yet." Labus and his team are responsible for keeping track of illnesses within the community and coming up with ways on how to fight them.
About 10 months ago, Dr. Labus was tasked with finding out if the enterovirus strain 68 had already made it to the state. This is the same strain that has been causing multiple respiratory problems across the country and putting children in the hospital. To date, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed that enterovirus 68 has affected 43 states. Public concern in Nevada has been escalating especially because cases of the virus have been reported in neighboring states including California, Idaho, and Utah.
Dr. Harold Naiman, representative from Healthcare Partners said that the people of Nevada "are only a plane ride away from most of these viruses. It is important to know if it's around, but it doesn't change much as far as how we treat the patient." Being a pediatrician, Dr. Naiman is responsible for sending nasal swabs and other specimens to the laboratory if a case of enteroviruses 68 is suspected. The most common symptoms of the disease include coughing, runny nose, and fever, which are all very similar to those of the common cold making the diagnostic process for this condition more of a challenge.