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P.E.I. reports its first case of enterovirus D68 this season

Health officials in P.E.I. have identified the first case of enterovirus D68 on the Island this season. File/Global News

CHARLOTTETOWN – Health officials in P.E.I. have identified the first case of enterovirus D68 on the Island this season.

Chief Public Health Officer Heather Morrison said Tuesday that a child under the age of 10 tested positive for the virus, but was treated and has fully recovered.

READ MORE: Is enterovirus more concerning than the flu? What parents need to know

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Morrison says enteroviruses circulate every year, with most people recovering at home from the usual mild, cold-like symptoms.

But she says anyone experiencing difficulty breathing or shortness of breath should seek medical help.

READ MORE: 3 cases of enterovirus confirmed in Fredericton

In Canada, there have been dozens of confirmed cases of EV-D68 which in a small number of infected children can cause polio-like symptoms.

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The illness is being blamed for the death of a four-year-old boy in New Jersey on the weekend.

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