Quebec on alert as enterovirus D-68 moves into Canada

Quebec's hospitals and public health agencies are keeping a watchful eye on enterovirus D-68, a respiratory illness that can be particularly dangerous for young people with asthma.

There are no confirmed cases in Quebec so far, however, thevirus that has made hundreds of children in the U.S. sick has arrived inCanada.

Eighteen children in Alberta are confirmed to be infected withenterovirusD-68.

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Dr.CarolineQuach, a pediatric infectious disease consultant at the Montreal Children's Hospital, said this year the hospital has seendouble the number ofenteroviruscases than there were at this time last year.

Quachsaid its unusual to see so many infections at this time of year, adding that120 children so far have tested positive forenterovirusbut none so far forenterovirusD-68.

"There are over 100 enteroviruses that can cause disease,"Quachsaid.

Early signs look a lot like a cold, but doctors say there's no need to worry at first.

They advise parents totake their children to the emergency room if their breathing is affected. Thatcan be a sign of D-68.

"There's less fever and a greater propensity to cause acute respiratory deterioration, mainly in children with underlying asthma or other respiratory conditions,"Quachsaid.

Quebec is ready, health ministry says

QuebecHealth Minister Gatan Barrettesays the province is ready if D-68 comes here next.

"With that kind of virus, often we have to treat in hospital but we are well prepared everywhere to face that," he said.

Quebec daycare operators say they're also ready to help stop the spread of viruses by having plastic gloves andhand sanitizer at every entrance.

"We already max out all the measures that there are to take but we'll be more vigilant to keep our eyes out for the symptomshowever,and keep the parents informed," saidGina Gasparini, president of Quebec's association of public daycares.

Health officials are reminding parents to wash their hands make sure their children wash their hands frequently and disinfect toys, surfaces and doorknobs.

Click here to find out the eight things you need to know aboutenterovirusD-68.