Adenovirus infection

Adenovirus Infection is a common illness caused by the adenovirus. This virus is responsible for a wide range of illnesses, from mild respiratory infections in young children to life-threatening multi-organ disease in people with a weakened immune system.

Overview

Adenovirus is a type of virus that can infect the lining of the eyes, airways and lungs, intestines, urinary tract, and nervous system. It's one of many types of viruses that can cause common cold and other types of respiratory infections.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an adenovirus infection vary depending on the type of adenovirus and the part of the body that's infected. Some people with an adenovirus infection might have a fever, a sore throat, a cough, or flu-like symptoms. Some might have diarrhea or pink eye (conjunctivitis).

Transmission

Adenoviruses are usually spread from an infected person to others through close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands; through the air by coughing and sneezing; or by touching an object or surface with adenoviruses on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.

Treatment

There's no specific treatment for people with adenovirus infection. Most adenovirus infections are mild and they usually get better on their own, even without treatment. However, people with weakened immune systems, or existing respiratory or cardiac disease, are at higher risk of developing severe illness from an adenovirus infection.

Prevention

The best way to prevent getting an adenovirus infection is to practice good hygiene. This includes washing your hands often with soap and water, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and not touching your face with unwashed hands.