The B.C. Centre for Disease Control says a child under the age of five is the third person in the province to die after contracting Enterovirus D68.
However, they also say the peak of the virus, which has infected at least 220 people in B.C. in recent months, has passed.
“The risk to the community was and remains low, even lower now than in the fall, notwithstanding this most recent tragic death.”
The boy, whose name has not been released, died in the Vancouver area last November, but the BCDC didn’t confirm Enterovirus D68 was in his system when he died until last week.
In total, there have been 220 confirmed cases of Enterovirus D68 in B.C., but Skowronski says the actual number is likely much higher.
“The vast majority of cases are not reported to us, they aren’t recognized or tested because typically illnesses associated with it are mild.”
To prevent the illness, the BCDC has the following tips:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
- Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid kissing, hugging and sharing cups or utensils with people who are sick
- Cover your mouth with your elbow when you cough or sneeze
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick
- Stay at home from work or school when sick
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