Enterovirus D68 is more dangerous for children who have an underlying respiratory condition, like asthma. In this video, pediatrician Alan Greene, MD, discusses how children's less-developed immune systems and smaller airways also increase risk.
So, Enterovirus D68 is more dangerous for children than adults in part because their immune system is still developing, and in part because their airways are so small. If you or I were to have a swelling in the lining of our airways it wouldn't be a big deal, but a kid's airway is small enough that the same amount of swelling could be serious.
If the child has an underlying lung condition of any kind, such as asthma, it's even a higher risk.
Alan Greene, MD, is a practicing pediatrician, author, speaker, children’s health advocate, and father of four. He is the founder and CEO of DrGreene.com and the Chief Medical Officer of Scanadu.
View Profile