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People usually become infected with enteroviruses by coming into contact with the respiratory secretions of someone who is infected. Such secretions include saliva, sputum or nasal mucus. The stool of an infected person also can transmit the virus and can be transmitted to others through poor hygiene.

Germs associated with enteroviruses are often transferred to surfaces or objects, such as door handles or telephones. People become contaminated by touching these objects, and then infect themselves by touching their eyes, mouth or nose with contaminated fingers. Parents and other caregivers who change an infected infant’s diaper may also become contaminated through contact with the infant’s stool.

Consuming contaminated foods or liquids can also result in enterovirus infection. Sewage contamination of water supplies can cause enterovirus epidemics. It does not appear that enteroviruses can be spread through blood transfusions or insect bites.

In the United States, enteroviruses are most likely to occur in the summer and autumn. Enteroviruses affect people across all age groups and populations. However, children from infancy to adolescence are at higher risk of infection because they are less likely to have built up antibodies to these viruses. They are also less likely to practice good hygiene, such as hand washing. People who live in high-density populations and are not able to practice good hygiene are also at an increased risk of infection.