Adenoviruses are common viruses that can cause a variety of infections, including respiratory tract infections, conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis, and pneumonia. They are highly contagious and can be transmitted through airborne particles or contact with contaminated surfaces. There is no specific treatment for adenovirus infection, but vaccinations are available for specific serotypes. The best way to avoid infection is to wash hands regularly and avoid touching the face with unwashed hands.
An adenovirus is a virus of the Adenoviridae family. These viruses are abundantly common worldwide, with over 50 serotypes identified that can cause a variety of infections. Many healthy people carry a harmless adenovirus or two with them, and the virulent forms of these viruses are highly contagious and spread rapidly from person to person once someone becomes infected. Infection with these viruses is most common in children, although adults in crowded settings such as colleges and military barracks are also prone to infections.
In many cases, adenovirus infection results in a respiratory tract infection. These viruses can also cause conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis, encephalitis, cystitis, pneumonia, and chronic interstitial fibrosis, among other things. Patients may feel nauseous or fatigued and may experience cough, diarrhea and difficulty urinating, depending on the nature of the infection. Frequently, the infection appears bacterial in nature first, and when the infection doesn’t respond to antibiotics, a doctor may take a sample to look for signs of adenovirus.
People can catch these viruses through airborne particles from coughs and sneezes and from handling things that have been touched by someone who carries an adenovirus. Once the virus enters the hands, it can enter the eyes or nose when these areas are touched, or it can be ingested, causing gastroenteritis. Infected individuals can also transmit the virus through poor food handling that exposes people to the virus.
There is no specific treatment for adenovirus infection. Patients often recover on their own, with some supportive hydration. Sometimes, a patient becomes severely dehydrated and hospitalization is required. In rare cases, a patient may become ill to the point of death or require more drastic medical interventions. Fatal cases are more common in people with compromised immune systems and in people living in stressed, crowded environments.
These viruses were first recognized in 1953 in adenoid tissue, which is why they are known as adenoviruses. Vaccinations against specific serotypes are available in some regions and these may be recommended for people who live or work in crowded environments. Since adenovirus infection is usually not very dangerous and many people acquire immunity at a young age, vaccinations are not necessary in most cases, but a doctor may have specific recommendations for a particular patient. People should note that the best way to avoid infection is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
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