Boise area reports rise in enterovirus D68 with respiratory and rare neurological risks

Wastewater testing in the Boise area indicates high levels of enterovirus D68, a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild illness but can lead to severe respiratory disease and, rarely, acute flaccid myelitis, a neurological condition that can cause paralysis. Most at risk are children and people with asthma or weakened immune systems; there is no vaccine or targeted treatment, so prevention focuses on covering coughs, handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and staying home when sick.