Summer Alert: Enterovirus Outbreaks on the Rise!

Highlights:

Enteroviruses spike in summer, causing various illnesses from mild colds to severe conditions like meningitis
Practicing hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with the sick, and maintaining cleanliness are key defenses
Stay informed about outbreaks and follow health guidelines to keep yourself and your community safe

Enterovirus is extremely frequent, especially in the summer (). You should be aware of this ailment, especially because doctors believe its numbers are on the rise. Summer is enterovirus season, and specialists warn that youngsters and those with weakened immune systems should be especially cautious.

What are Summer Enteroviruses?

Enteroviruses are primarily transmitted via close contact with an infected individual, respiratory secretions (such as saliva or nasal discharge), or contact with contaminated surfaces (). These viruses can cause a variety of ailments, including hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), viral meningitis, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal problems.

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‘Did You Know?
Enterovirus, more common in summer, can cause a spectrum of illnesses. Stay vigilant and practice good hygiene to keep summer sickness at bay! #summerhealth #enterovirus #medindia’

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Enteroviruses, according to the University of Rochester, are a type of virus that is more common during the warmer months and can cause a variety of ailments, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to more serious disorders (). Let’s discuss some effective strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones from summer enteroviruses, ensuring a healthy and joyful summer season ().

Tips to Stay Protected Against Summer Enteroviruses

Practice good hand hygiene:

Regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of enteroviruses. Encourage everyone in your household, particularly youngsters, to wash their hands before eating, after using the restroom, and after visiting public places.

Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available:

Carry a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol for occasions when soap and water are not readily available. Use it after contacting public surfaces, handling cash, or touching shared things.

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Avoid close contact with sick people:

If someone in your family or social circle has symptoms of enterovirus infection, such as fever, cough, runny nose, or rash, avoid close contact. Encourage children to use appropriate respiratory hygiene techniques, such as covering their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow while coughing or sneezing.

Keep surfaces clean and disinfected:

Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs, counters, light switches, and electronic gadgets. Use disinfectants approved by health authorities and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for proper application.

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Practice respiratory etiquette:

If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. To prevent the spread of viral respiratory droplets, dispose of tissues appropriately and immediately wash your hands.

Maintain proper personal hygiene:

Encourage appropriate personal hygiene habits, such as not sharing utensils, drinks, or personal belongings with others. Teach youngsters not to touch their faces, particularly their eyes, nose, and mouth, to limit the chance of viral transmission.

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Stay informed and follow health guidelines:

Stay up to date on enterovirus outbreaks and preventive actions by following information from credible health agencies. Follow any guidelines or recommendations made by health professionals to safeguard yourself and your community.

By taking these precautions and practicing excellent cleanliness, you can dramatically lower your risk of catching summer enteroviruses while also protecting yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy a safe and healthy summer season by prioritizing your health and adopting proactive measures to prevent the spread of illnesses.

References:

Clinical significance of enteroviruses in serious summer febrile illnesses of children - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10530582/)
Virus Transmission and Epidemiology - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7148619/)
Enteroviruses in Children - (https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=160&contentid=63)
Therapeutic and prevention strategies against human enterovirus 71 infection - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25964873/)

Source-Medindia