PDF Copy for download: http://www.denvillenj.org/docs/Health/Frequently_Asked_Questions___EV_D68.pdf
CARLOS PEREZ, JR.
Health Officer
Ext. 268
KATHLEEN SCOLLANS
Registrar of Vital Statistics
Ext. 266
KELLY LOMBARDI
Health Department Secretary
Ext. 261
OFFICE PHONE:
973-625-8300 Ext 261
TOWNSHIP OF DENVILLE
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH LAURA DECKER
Registered Environmental
Health Specialist-
Asst. Health Dept. Supervisor
Ext. 260
PEGGY GROSSMAN
Public Health Nurse Supervisor
Ext. 264
OFFICE FAX:
973-627-8371
1 ST. MARY’S PLACE, DENVILLE, NJ 07834
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – ENTEROVIRUS D-68 (EV-D68)
What is EV-D68?
EV-D68 is classified as a non-polio enterovirus. Enteroviruses most often circulate in Summer and Fall. Presently,
we are in the middle (peak) of the enterovirus season. It is anticipated that EV-D68 infections will likely decline
during late Fall.
What are the symptoms of EV-D68?
Symptoms are mild to severe respiratory-type illness:
Mild symptoms may include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and body and muscle aches.
Severe symptoms may include wheezing and difficulty breathing.
How does EV-D68 spread?
The virus spreads via an infected person’s respiratory secretions (i.e. saliva, mucus, or sputum). EV-D68 spreads
from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches/contaminates surfaces.
How EV-D68 is treated?
There are no antiviral medications or treatments for EV-D68 and recovery requires bed rest, hydration, and
treatment of symptoms with prescribed or over-the-counter medications. Hospitalization is required mostly for
respiratory complications.
Who is at risk for infection?
Infants, children, and teens are more likely to get infected with enteroviruses due to lack of immunity resulting from
no previous exposure to enteroviruses (again which commonly circulate during Summer and Fall).
Infants, children, and teens with weakened immune systems and/or who suffer from asthma or other respiratory
conditions are at highest risk for complications. Most cases have been in children with asthma or who have had a
history of wheezing.
How can EV-D68 be prevented?
EV-D68 can be prevented via proper hand washing and washing hands often; covering coughs and sneezes;
disinfecting and cleaning surfaces, particularly those which are often used/touched (e.g. toys and doorknobs);
avoiding touching one’s face with unclean hands; avoiding close contact with sick persons; properly washing hands
after diaper changing; not sharing cups or utensils with infected persons; and staying home from school and/or work
if sick. Keeping children who have symptoms home is key.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – EBOLA
What is Ebola?
Ebola is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with the Ebola virus. Ebola was first discovered in 1976
in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire) where it was observed near the Ebola River. Currently there
are 4 known viral strains which can cause Ebola in humans. The fifth strain has caused illness in some animals,
but not in humans.
Outbreaks of Ebola have occurred since its discovery in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, and after 2000, with cases limited
to African countries. The current outbreak is the largest and deadliest to date. As of October 10, 2014 there
have been 8,400 cases and 4,033 deaths.
What causes Ebola?
The natural reservoir host of Ebola viruses is unknown. The way the virus is transmitted from the natural host
to a human is unknown. Experts believe that people become infected through contact with an infected animal.
What are the signs and symptoms of Ebola?
Signs and symptoms of infection are:
Fever
Severe headache
Muscle pain
Weakness
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Abdominal (stomach) pain
Unexplained hemorrhage (bleeding or bruising)
Symptoms typically appear 2 to 21 days after exposure to Ebola; however the average period of time for
symptoms to manifest is 8 to 10 days.
How is Ebola transmitted among people?
Only mammals (for example, humans, bats, monkeys, and apes) have shown the ability to become
infected with and spread Ebola virus.
Ebola is spread to others via direct contact and through broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes,
nose, or mouth with blood or bodily fluids. These fluids include but are not limited to urine, saliva, sweat,
feces, vomit, breast milk, and semen from an infected person who is febrile/sick. Ebola can also spread
via needles and syringes that have been contaminated with the virus.
Ebola is not spread through the air, water, or food. Ebola may however be spread as a result of handling
bush meat (wild animals hunted for food) and contact with infected bats. Currently, no evidence exists
that mosquitoes or other insects can transmit Ebola.
Who is at risk for infection?
Healthcare providers caring for Ebola patients and the family and friends in close contact with Ebola
patients are at the highest risk of getting sick because they may come in contact with infected blood or
body fluids of sick patients. Persons handling the remains of persons who died as a result of Ebola may
also be at risk for infection. Exposure to Ebola can occur in healthcare settings where hospital staff are
not wearing appropriate protective equipment, including masks, gowns, and gloves and eye protection.
When can a person with Ebola infect others?
The time from exposure to when signs or symptoms of the disease appear (the incubation period) is 2 to
21 days, but the average time is 8 to 10 days.
How is Ebola treated?
Treatment includes:
Providing intravenous fluids (IV) and balancing electrolytes (body salts)
Maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure
Treating other infections if they occur
Experimental vaccines and treatments for Ebola are presently under development, but they have not yet
been fully tested for safety or effectiveness on humans.
Can a person recover from Ebola?
Recovery from Ebola depends on good supportive clinical care and the patient’s immune response.
People who recover from Ebola infection develop antibodies that may last for at least 10 years.
