Officials with the Health Department confirmed three new cases of enterovirus in New Jersey since last week.
Health department officials told NBC10 the three new cases are all in Monmouth County.
The new EV-D68 cases bring the total number to 17 in New Jersey, with cases in the following counties:
- Monmouth County – 3
- Morris County – 3
- Mercer County – 2
- Camden County – 2
- Middlesex County – 2
- Burlington County – 2
- Passaic County – 1
- Sussex County – 1
- Essex County -1
Last month, 4-year-old Eli Waller of Mercer County died of the virus.
Enterovirus is not new; most people who catch the virus experience only a runny nose and low-grade fever. It was first identified in 1962 and has caused clusters of illness before.
This year the virus has sickened more than 500 people in 43 states and Washington, D.C. — almost all of them children.
To avoid getting the virus, health officials recommend people:
- Wash their hands with soap and water.
- Avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups, plates and utensils with people who are sick
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick.
