Hundreds of children across the United States have been hospitalized with a serious respiratory illness . Scientists say they believe the bug to blame is Enterovirus D68 , also known as EV-D68 . List of states with the Enterovirus . Enteroviruses are common , especially in September , but this particular type is not . There have been fewer than 100 cases recorded since it was identified in the 1960s , according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Here 's what you need to know as a parent : . What are the symptoms ? The virus usually starts like the common cold ; symptoms include sneezing , a runny nose and a cough . This is all that happens for most people who catch an enterovirus . But some patients will get a severe cough , have difficulty breathing and/or develop a rash . EV-D68 is sometimes also accompanied by a fever or wheezing . So when should you begin worrying ? Unfortunately in the beginning it 's difficult -- if not impossible -- to tell the difference between a regular cold and this type of virus . But there are symptoms you should be on the lookout for if your child becomes sick . Go to the doctor if he or she develops a fever or a rash , or if your child has difficulty breathing . Children with asthma or a history of breathing problems are particularly susceptible for severe symptoms . How is EV-D68 treated ? There is no specific treatment for enteroviruses , according to the CDC . Plenty of rest , fluids and over-the-counter medications will help ease symptoms in standard cases . Patients who are hospitalized will likely receive assistance breathing and what 's called `` supportive therapy '' to help their immune systems fight off the infection . Where is the virus spreading ? Twelve states are investigating clusters of enterovirus illnesses : Alabama , Colorado , Michigan , Georgia , Ohio , Iowa , Illinois , Missouri , Kansas , Oklahoma , Kentucky and Utah . But EV-D68 is often hard to distinguish from its relatives so the virus could be in other states as well . Enterovirus difficult to track . Why are kids being hospitalized ? Anyone can get infected with enteroviruses , according to the CDC , but infants , children and teens are more likely to become sick because they have not yet built up immunity from previous exposures to the viruses . How do I protect my children ? The respiratory illness spreads through close contact , just like the common cold . You can also be infected by touching objects or surfaces that have the virus on them , then touching your face . There 's not a great deal you can do , health officials say , beyond taking common-sense steps to reduce the risk . Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds -- particularly after going to the bathroom and changing diapers . Clean and disinfect surfaces that are regularly touched by different people , such as toys and doorknobs . Avoid shaking hands , kissing , hugging and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick . And stay home if you feel unwell .
Enterovirus D68 usually looks like the common cold . Problems include sneezing , runny nose , etc . Go to the doctor if your patient has a fever , rash or has trouble breathing .