Death of NJ Preschooler May Be Linked to Enterovirus

iStock/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) — The mysterious respiratory illness enterovirus that has been striking children throughout the country is spreading fast, and may be the cause of a preschooler’s death.

Authorities in New Jersey are investigating if the death of a four-year-old boy, who suffered from a respiratory illness, may be from a rare strain of the disease. Officials have ordered that the boy’s preschool classroom be sanitized.

The virus is spreading quickly; nearly three weeks ago, 11 states were affected by enterovirus, and as of Friday, 45 states have confirmed or suspected cases.

Bcause testing for enterovirus takes time, officials believe the number of confirmed cases could keep growing.

Doctors say washing your hands is the best way to keep the virus from spreading.

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