Enterovirus in children

Enterovirus is the name given to a group of viruses. These viruses are very common and there are many different types.

Each year the mixture of enteroviruses strains circulating (spreading through the population) changes. Some enterovirus strains cause hand, foot and mouth disease or viral conjunctivitis.

Enterovirus infections are more common in the summer and autumn months.

Infants, children and teenagers are most likely to become infected and get ill. Young babies are more likely to get severe disease.

Sometimes, enterovirus infections can cause serious illnesses. Such as:

• enterovirus 71 (EV-71)
• enterovirus D68 (EV-D68)
• human parechovirus (HPeV)
• polio

Enteroviruses are a group of viruses that can cause infectious disease.

How are enteroviruses spread?

Your child is most likely to catch an enterovirus from someone else's infected:

• saliva
• mucus
• faeces (poo)
• the fluid from blister from people with hand, foot and mouth disease

Your child might also become infected if they touch toys or surfaces that have the virus on them. And then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

The virus can also be spread by touching the hands of an infected person. And then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

If you are worried about your child's symptoms, it's a good idea to see a doctor.

Your doctor will ask you about your child's symptoms. They may arrange tests, such as:

• blood tests
• nose and throat swabs
• stool tests
• a lumbar puncture

These can help identify the type of enterovirus making your child sick.

There is no specific treatment for an enterovirus infection. Most infected children get better on their own.

You can give your child medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen to help with symptoms such as pain or fever.

It's important to make sure that you give your child the correct dose of pain medicine If your child needs pain killers for more than 48 hours, they should see a doctor.

Read the instructions on the pack carefully, as the amount your baby needs will depend on:

• your baby's age
• your baby's weight
• the strength of the medicine

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

It's important that your child stays hydrated and drinks plenty of fluids. Depending on their age, this may be:

• breast milk
• formula milk
• water
• oral rehydration solution or icy poles

Avoid offering drinks that contain a lot of sugar.

Sometimes, enterovirus illness can be bad enough to need treatment in hospital.

Infants and children with weakened immune systems are more likely to have complications. Some infections can cause:

• inflammatory muscle disease
• myocarditis (infection of the heart)
• pericarditis (infection of the membrane around your heart)
• sepsis
• viral conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• viral encephalitis (brain infection)
• viral meningitis (infection of the membrane around your brain)

Good hygiene is the best protection from enteroviruses.

You can lower the chance of your child becoming infected by washing their hands:

• after toileting or changing nappies
• before eating
• after wiping their nose

Teach your child to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue or their arm when they cough or sneeze.

You should also teach your child to avoid sharing:

• cups
• cutlery
• towels or face washers
• toothbrushes

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as nappy-changing tables. Also, clean toys and other objects that may be contaminated.

If your child does become sick, keep them away from childcare or school to stop them spreading the infection.

If you are sick and caring for a small baby, wash your hands before touching or feeding your baby.

Polio can be prevented by vaccination.

Talk to your doctor or child health nurse if you have questions about enterovirus in children.

Read more about common childhood illnesses that have a school exclusion period.

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne has fact sheets on:

• pain relief for children
• dehydration
• fever in children
• stopping the spread of germs