Adenovirus infection is a viral infection of the linings of the respiratory tract, eyes, intestines, and urinary tract. Adenovirus infection is highly contagious, so contact your healthcare provider if you think you have this infection.
Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that are a frequent cause of acute respiratory tract infections (ie,
common colds
), as well as a number of other types of infections. Adenoviruses can be spread through:
- Being exposed to a sneeze or cough of an infected person
- Fecal contamination (eg, water supplies, poor hygiene)
- Eating food contaminated by houseflies
- Person-to-person contact
- Handling an object that was exposed to an infected person
- Swimming in lakes or pools
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factor is thought to increase the risk of developing an adenovirus infection:
- Age: childhood, especially young children
Depending on where the infection occurs, symptoms of adenovirus infection may include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Depending on the type of infection that is suspected, he or she may also take mucous, stool, blood, and/or urine samples for testing in the laboratory.
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment will depend on the type of infection you have. Treatment options include:
Since adenovirus infections will usually subside with time, treatment often focuses on making the patient more comfortable. This may include plenty of rest, extra fluids, a humidifier, acetaminophen, and/or over-the-counter medications. In cases of conjunctivitis, warm compresses and eye ointments or drops may be recommended.
If you have severe diarrhea or vomiting, fluids may need to be given via an intravenous line to prevent dehydration.
Rarely, a doctor may administer certain medicines for life-threatening adenovirus infections in those patients that are severely immunocompromised.
The best way to prevent adenovirus infection is to avoid contact with infected persons and practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing and cleaning of shared surfaces (eg, countertops, toys). In addition, keeping swimming pools adequately chlorinated may prevent outbreaks of adenovirus infection associated with swimming pools.
Last reviewed August 2007 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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