The respiratory illness that has sickened 1000s of children in at least a dozen states is still under investigation; however, confirmation of Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) has been reported in six states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today.

Enterovirus D68
EV-D68 map/CDC

As of September 10, 2014, a total of 82 people in six states (Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky and Missouri) have been confirmed to have respiratory illness caused by EV-D68.

The federal health agency notes that although EV-D68 infections are thought to occur less commonly than infections with other enteroviruses. However, CDC does not know how many infections and deaths from EV-D68 occur each year in the United States.

Healthcare professionals are not required to report this information to health departments. Also, CDC does not have a surveillance system that specifically collects information on EV-D68 infections. 

Anyone can get infected with EV-D68. Among the recent EV-D68 infections in some states, children with asthma seemed to have a higher risk for severe respiratory illness. However, this is still being investigated, the CDC said.

Related: Enterovirus D68 outbreak: Michigan and Alabama the latest states to report cases 

Enterovirus D-68 (HEV-D68) Update 

Missouri health officials issue health alert for Enterovirus D68 outbreak