Most enterovirus infections are contagious, so proper hygiene is recommended. Wash hands frequently.
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Infection of one EV strain doesn't guarantee immunity to others, so infection with multiple strains is possible. It is also possible to contract one EV strain through the respiratory tract, and another strain through the GI tract.
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EV infections impact the economy as they often result in missed work or school, and increase visits to the doctor.
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Enteroviruses are primarily transmitted from human to human through direct contact with droplets from the respiratory tract and/or the gastrointestinal tract.
Since children are affected the most, they are the largest group to spread transmission of the virus.
EV's impact the pulmonary and GI systems because most infections are either inhaled or ingested.
EV's thrive in the GI tract, so virus shedding from the lungs can spread to the stomach.
EV sheds in the stool, so transmission risk is also higher for adults changing diapers.
Enteroviruses can also be spread through
contact with infected eyes (hemorrhagic conjunctivitis is usually EV 70).
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Young children are the largest group effected by enteroviruses because they touch everything and their immune systems may not be fully developed. Exposure to small children increases the risk of EV infections, so many chronically infected patients are mothers, grandmothers, teachers, day-care workers, or even flight attendants.
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Enteroviruses can be present in contaminated food or water, especially undercooked shellfish and/or sushi.
Patients should be cautious of eating "high risk foods" when their immune function is weak or compromised.
Parents should be cautious of children still coughing weeks after a respiratory infection. Most enteroviruses can continue to shed from the respiratory tract and GI tract for more than 8 weeks.
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