Enterovirus D68 in New Jersey. Enterovirus causes respiratory illness such as mild cold-like symptoms to severe breathing problems in the late summer and fall. In late 2025 there is an increase in detections in some U.S. regions.
But first where this kind of virus came from? Who is the most vulnerable to get infected? Are there any vaccines available to prevent its spread? How many cases are there in New Jersey?
The word Enterovirus comes from the Greek “enteron” (intestine) and “virus,” reflecting its primary transmission route through the digestive tract (enteric). – Dictionary.com
D68 refers to its classification within human enterovirus species D. The number “68” indicates that it was the 68th enterovirus serotype to be discovered and classified at the time of its initial isolation in 1962.
Enterovirus D68 in New Jersey
Broke out in California in 1962 from kids with respiratory illness and became known in 2014 linked to severe respiratory issues and polio-like paralysis (Acute Flaccid Myelitis),
Enterovirus is considered a threat to kids due to its quick spread, highly contagious, and no vaccine yet available.
While its genetic roots trace to North America, it’s a rapidly evolving virus with genetic diversity emerging globally, showing shared traits with both enteroviruses and rhinoviruses.
Enterovirus D68 in New Jersey Infographic
The best way to test or identify what virus infected you is by going to any urgent care near you.
1235 West Chestnut Street, Union NJ 07083
Sun 10 am to 10 pm
Located on Route 22 West (GSP Exit 140) – Same complex as LA Fitness & Crumbl Cookies. The location is directly next to Costco and across from P.C. Richards.
465 Route 46 West, Totowa NJ 07512
Sun 10 am to 10 pm
Located in the same shopping Plaza as Applebee’s and Hobby Lobby. 1000 feet off Route 80 Exits 54B and 55A (by Minnisink Rd & Furler Rd).
65 US-1, Metuchen NJ 08840
Sun 10 am to 10 pm
1060 Stelton Road, Piscataway NJ 08854
Mon-Sat 11 am to 10 pm
Sun 10 am to 10 pm
Located on Stelton Road (I-287 Exit 5) – Formerly the Friendly’s Restaurant, across from Hadley Center and next to TD Bank.
152 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Mon-Sat 11 am to 10 pm
Sun 10 am to 10 pm
Located 152 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302 right on restaurant row next to JC Taekwondo and The Sensory Gym.
TIPS AND WARNINGS:
- Enteroviruses and rhinoviruses are related “cousins” within the same virus family (Picornaviridae) and genus (Enterovirus) except that rhinoviruses typically cause the common cold, while enteroviruses (which include many types like Coxsackievirus, Poliovirus) can cause a broader range of illnesses.
- No vaccine yet for enteroviruses as of this writing. Boost your immune system to prevent infection.
- Cases of enteroviruses is not easy to count or track. It is massive cases if ever.
- Prevention is better than cure.
- Infants, children, and teenager are the most vulnerable or easy to get infected with this kind of virus.