Taiwan has reported its third death related to enterovirus this year, involving a one-year-old boy from southern Taiwan. This incident marks the first case, in the past decade, of fatality caused by Coxsackie virus B5, which is a part of the enterovirus family. So far this year, Taiwan has recorded four severe cases of enterovirus, with three of those cases resulting in death.
The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that a young boy developed a fever and respiratory symptoms in early March. Two days later, he experienced seizures and confusion, prompting a visit to the emergency room. He was diagnosed with acute encephalitis and admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit, but his condition quickly worsened, leading to his death six days after symptoms began.
The CDC reports low overall enterovirus activity in Taiwan, including doctor visits for infants aged 0-2 years. However, from February to March, there were four severe enterovirus cases in infants, the highest number in five years. Recent laboratory surveillance shows that Coxsackie A16 is the leading strain, followed by Echovirus 11 and Coxsackie A6.
The CDC advises parents of infants with enterovirus to monitor for severe complications, especially in children under five. Warning signs include drowsiness, confusion, lethargy, muscle weakness, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, and increased heart rate. With the Tomb Sweeping holiday approaching, parents and childcare providers should keep close watch on children's health and hygiene. Proper handwashing techniques should be taught, and sick children should stay home to prevent spreading the virus infection.