The Agency is closely monitoring the situation and is in close contact with provinces and territories as well as with U.S. public health officials on this issue
In addition, a Public Health Alert has been sent to health professionals across the country to increase awareness and to remain vigilant for possible Enterovirus infections causing respiratory illness.
Enteroviruses, such as EV-D68, are related to the common cold virus and can spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing, by close contact with infected persons or by touching a contaminated surface. In general, Enteroviruses circulate and peak in the summer and fall months so it is not unusual to see increased illnesses caused by Enteroviruses this time of year.
The most effective measures you can do to protect yourself and children against Enteroviruses such as EV-D68 are:
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer.
- Wash your hands:
- before and after eating
- after you have been in a public place
- after using the washroom
- after coughing and sneezing
- after touching common surfaces
- Cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hand
- Keep your hands away from your face
- Keep common surface areas clean and disinfected
- If you get sick, stay home
- Ensure your immunizations are up to date
- Eat healthy foods and be physically active to keep your immune system strong.
The Agency, along with provincial and territorial public health authorities, will continue to inform Canadians if additional EV-D68 cases are confirmed in Canada.
