What is Adenovirus?
Adenovirus is not a new pathogen. It has existed for a long time and causes outbreaks periodically. It’s simply being detected more often today thanks to improved testing technology. Surveys show that 40–60% of children have evidence of prior infection with Adenovirus strains 1, 2, and 5.
It was first discovered in 1953 by virologist Dr. Wallace Rowe in adenoid tissue (lymph nodes behind the nasal cavity) – hence the name. In reality, however, it infects multiple body systems, not just the adenoids.
What are the symptoms of Adenovirus infection?
Symptoms depend on which system is affected:
- Respiratory system: Cough, runny nose, sore throat, red eyes.
- Digestive system: Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
Most patients also develop a fever alongside their other symptoms. The average fever duration is 5–6 days.
Adenovirus can affect all age groups, but is most common in children aged 6 months to 5 years. Children under 1-year-old are at higher risk of severe illness.
How does Adenovirus spread?
- Inhaling droplets from an infected person’s mucus or phlegm
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face
- Eating or drinking contaminated food or water
How is Adenovirus diagnosed?
- Respiratory or eye symptoms: A nasal and throat swab test
- Digestive symptoms: A stool sample test
How is Adenovirus treated?
There is no specific antiviral drug for Adenovirus — unlike influenza or COVID-19. Antibiotics are also ineffective, as this is a viral infection. Treatment is therefore symptomatic and may include:
- IV fluids or oral rehydration when the patient has low food intake
- Nebulization, mucus suctioning, or oxygen support for lung infections
- Fever reducers and tepid sponging for high temperature
How can Adenovirus be prevented?
The best protection is the same as for most infectious diseases:
- Teach children to wash hands properly and frequently with soap and water or alcohol gel
- Keep household items and surfaces clean
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals
References:
- Red Book: 2021–2024 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases By: Committee on Infectious Diseases, American Academy of Pediatrics, David W. Kimberlin, MD, FAAP
- Wun-Ju Shieh, Human adenovirus infections in pediatric population – An update on clinico–pathologic correlation, Biomedical Journal, Volume 45, Issue 1, 2022
- Ruuskanen O, Meurman O, Sarkkinen H. Adenoviral diseases in children: a study of 105 hospital cases. Pediatrics. 1985
- Hsiu-Lin Chen, Respiratory Adenoviral Infections in Children: A Study of Hospitalized Cases in Southern Taiwan in 2001–2002. Journal of Tropical Pediatrics. 2004
- Xue-Hua Xu, Analysis of mortality risk factors in children with severe adenovirus pneumonia: A single center retrospective study. Taiwan Pediatric Association 2022
- Stanford University
- ATS – American Thoracic Society
