What is Adenoviruses? What are its symptoms, prevention, risk?

KATHMANDU, July 29: In recent days, hospitals in the Kathmandu Valley are witnessing a rise in number of Adenoviruses cases among children. 

Adenoviruses are common viruses that typically cause mild cold- or flu-like illness. Adenoviruses can cause illness in people of all ages any time of year. 

ADENOVIRUS SYMPTOMS 

Adenoviruses can cause a wide range of illnesses including 

• common cold- or flu-like symptoms

 • fever

 • sore throat

 • pink eye (conjunctivitis)

 • acute bronchitis (inflammation of the airways of the lungs, sometimes called a “chest cold”)

 • pneumonia (infection of the lungs, occasionally severe) 

• diarrhea 

• acute gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach or intestines causing diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain)

Less common illnesses caused by adenovirus include bladder infection or inflammation and neurologic disease (conditions that affect the brain and spinal cord). 

HOW ADENOVIRUSES SPREAD 

Adenoviruses are usually spread from an infected person to others through 

• close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands

• the air by coughing and sneezing 

• touching an object or surface with adenoviruses on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands 

• contact with stool, for example, during diaper changing Adenoviruses are often resistant to common disinfectants and can remain infectious for long periods of time on surfaces and objects. 

WHO IS AT RISK FOR SEVERE ADENOVIRUS INFECTION? 

People with weakened immune systems (including from medications they are taking or from heart or lung diseases) are at higher risk for developing severe adenovirus infection. Certain types of this virus have been linked to more severe illness. Rarely, otherwise healthy people with adenovirus infections will become so ill that they need to be hospitalized and may die. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases 

HOW TO PREVENT ADENOVIRUS INFECTIONS 

Protect yourself from getting sick.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and help young children do the same. 

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. 

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, protect others. 

• Stay home when you are sick. 

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. 

• Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils with others. 

• Refrain from kissing others. 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom.

TREATMENT FOR ADENOVIRUS 

There is no specific treatment or approved antiviral medicine for people with adenovirus infection. People who are seriously ill may need care in the hospital to help them recover. Most adenovirus infections are mild and may only require care to help relieve symptoms. 

TESTING FOR ADENOVIRUSES 

Laboratory testing for adenoviruses is not routinely done because most people have mild or no symptoms, and no specific treatment is available. Testing for adenoviruses may be requested by your healthcare provider in certain situations, for example, if you have severe illness or pneumonia or if an outbreak is being investigated. 

ADENOVIRUS VACCINE 

There is a vaccine for certain types of adenovirus that is used in military personnel who may be at higher risk for infection from these adenovirus types. The safety and effectiveness of this vaccine has not been studied in the general population or in people with weakened immune systems, and it is not approved for use outside of the military. There is currently no adenovirus vaccine available for the general public.