(Mt. Vernon) The Jefferson County Health Department would like to remind everyone that with cold and flu season approaching to take precautions. The Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) is another respiratory illness that has been causing sickness in children. While other symptoms can occur, EV-68 has been associated almost exclusively with respiratory disease. You can take these precautions to help avoid EV- 68:

Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds
Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing drinks with sick individuals
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs.

There is no medication to treat EV-68 currently available, and no cases of EV-68 in Jefferson County. For more information, please call the health department at 618-244-7134 or visit www.jeffcohealth.blogspot.com