Nasopharyngeal, rectal, and skin cultures were all positive for enterovirus. The serotype was subsequently identified as enterovirus 71. Upon discharge on July 24, the child had some movement of the right arm, but deltoid and bicep reflexes were absent and brachio-radialis reflexes were variable. Four months after discharge, she is much improved although mild right upper extremity weakness persists. An estimated 30 million non-polio enterovirus infections occur each year in the United States.
Most enteroviral infections are asymptomatic.
They are transmitted mainly through the fecal-oral route. Oropharyngeal shedding is limited to about one week around the time of onset of symptoms. Virus is shed in feces for several weeks to months. Contrary to the name, enteric disease is not the most important manifestation of these infections. The most common manifestation is non-specific febrile illness with or without a rash.