A Mysterious New Virus Is Affecting Children Nationwide

Parents should be on high alert for a new respiratory illness that's likely to become a national issue, according to the US Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. The disease, identified as enterovirus D68, is related to the rhinovirus and has infected more than 1,000 children in 10 states. Doctors say the illness often starts as a cold with coughing, a runny nose, and sneezing, but when wheezing begins, the disease can become very dangerous.

The illness has been spreading rapidly, likely due to the start of school, and young children and kids with asthma are especially at risk. Because of how the disease affects the respiratory system, asthmatic children are experiencing intensified symptoms that have left several affected kids in the emergency room. Experts ask parents to make sure that your child's inhaler is readily available and to prepare a plan in case an asthma attack occurs.