FDH Brevard Update On Ebola, EV D-68 and Influenza

STATEWIDE COLLABORATION OF HEALTHCARE ORGANIZATIONS AND PROVIDERS

BREVARD COUNTY • VIERA, FLORIDA–The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County is taking all steps to protect our people against diseases, like Ebola, Enterovirus D-68 and many others. We work with the hospitals, physicians, state Department of Health, and CDC closely monitoring these developments. Currently, there are no outbreaks or confirmed cases of Ebola or Enterovirus D-68 in Brevard County.

EBOLA

Symptoms_of_ebolaEbola Virus Disease is one of the Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers. When infection occurs, symptoms usually begin abruptly. Symptoms typically include high fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain and lack of appetite.

The health department has disseminated information to all emergency room departments regarding transmission, precautions, and an algorithm for testing and monitoring of movement for suspect cases.

Any patient who meets risk criteria may be considered for testing and will be reported immediately to the health department.

ENTEROVIRUS D-68

Although reported in 42 states over the past two months, at the current time, no confirmed cases of Enterovirus D-68 (EV D-68) have been reported in Florida.

EV68-map-thmb
Although reported in 42 states over the past two months, at the current time, no confirmed cases of Enterovirus D-68 (EV D-68) have been reported in Florida. (CDC Image)

EV D-68 is primarily found in children. The worst cases seem to occur in those with an underlying illness such as asthma, with sixty-eight percent of those hospitalized in the current outbreak having a history of asthma or wheezing.

EV D-68 is transmitted by respiratory droplets, by coughing, sneezing and through hands touching the face. Recommended guidelines for prevention or spreading the disease is to practice good hand washing and stay home if you have a respiratory illness.

INFLUENZA

Influenza activity is now occurring in Brevard County. The best way to be protected against the flu is to be vaccinated.

ucm384577Influenza is a serious disease, very contagious, and responsible for 36,000 deaths annually in the United States and 250,000 to 500,000 worldwide.

The health department strongly recommends seasonal flu vaccination, practicing good hand washing, and if you are sick, staying home to prevent exposure to others.