Infant Recovers from Severe Enterovirus D68 Case in Taiwan

Taiwan is experiencing a rise in Enterovirus cases, with a recent severe instance involving an 8-month-old infant diagnosed with Enterovirus D68. The infant initially presented with common cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose, cough, and high fever. However, the condition rapidly escalated, leading to neurological symptoms such as generalized tonic-clonic seizures and the eyes rolling upward. The infant was subsequently diagnosed with pneumonia and encephalitis, requiring admission to the intensive care unit.

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D68 symptoms are similar to the common cold, possibly including fever, runny nose, and cough, but a minority may develop complications like encephalitis or pneumonia.

After approximately two weeks of treatment, the infant's condition improved, and they have since been discharged home. Dr. Lin Yong-ching, an epidemic prevention physician, noted that Enterovirus D68 symptoms often resemble those of a common cold, making early detection challenging. While most infections are mild, a small percentage can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, or paralysis. Currently, there are no specific vaccines or treatments, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks, and resting when ill.

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Adults infected usually show no obvious symptoms but can transmit the virus to infants and young children.

Health officials are urging vigilance, particularly for children under five, who are considered a high-risk group for severe complications. Symptoms such as excessive sleepiness, decreased activity, persistent vomiting, muscle twitching, or limb weakness warrant immediate medical attention. Last week, Taiwan saw 7,522 outpatient and emergency visits for Enterovirus, a 6.8% increase from the previous week. The dominant strains circulating are Coxsackievirus A6, followed by Coxsackievirus A4 and Enterovirus D68. This year, Taiwan has recorded six severe Enterovirus cases, including one fatality, with four of these linked to D68.

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Children under five are high-risk groups for severe Enterovirus complications. If they show signs like lethargy, poor activity, persistent vomiting, muscle twitching, or limb weakness, they should be taken to a major hospital immediately.