Has Enterovirus Reached Phoenix + the West Valley?

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As most of us local Phoenix moms have heard there have been a couple of cases of children with sudden deaths and this has sparked the question, “Has enterovirus reached Phoenix + the West Valley?” We posted about first grader Luke yesterday and now we hear about baby Lancen. We’ve learned that there are currently 24 reported cases in Arizona that are under investigation. What’s scariest about this mysterious virus is that it is swift and can have devastating effects on these precious little lives. What can we do? I’m not an expert by any means but these are the things that experts suggest to look for (sources listed below):

• Watch for symptoms that may range from nothing at all (like baby Lancen) to more mild symptoms which may or may not include fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, and body and muscle aches
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing are more severe symptoms
• It can feel like the common cold or flu-like symptoms
• Children with asthma are at a greater risk due to the fact that this is a respiratory virus
• Common sense prevention measures are key
• Wash, Wash, Wash those little hands
• Keep dirty hands out of the mouth
• Consider changing clothes right away after arriving home
• Consider leaving shoes at the door to prevent tracking germs into the house
• Avoid sharing drinks, food, etc.
• Sick kids should stay home so that they don’t put others at risk
• Stay away from sick people
• This effects both adults and children
• Take vitamins to boost immune systems
• Vitamins D, C and Zinc among  many others are recommended on the Enterovirus Foundation link

It so scary + sad to hear about the extreme situations of this virus taking the lives of some very precious babes. We need to be careful and take what measures we can to protect our children. At North Phoenix Moms Blog our thoughts and prayers are with the families of little Luke and baby Lancen.

We are NOT medical professionals and for any medical questions please contact your doctor or pediatrician.

Sources:

CDC

AZ Central

Enterovirus Foundation