The start of December marked an increased number of cases of people affected by the dreaded and highly contagious adenovirus.
This virus, which many consider a “mysterious disease,” mainly causes mild cold or flu-like symptoms but some also experience more serious symptoms such as vomiting. It is also heartier compared to other viruses due to its longer survival on surfaces and its resistance to some of the most common disinfectants used. In fact, this is what makes it highly transmitable.
While there is no treatment for adenovirus as of now, it can certainly be managed and monitored through regular handwashing and thorough cleaning of surfaces. The symptoms usually go away within a couple of weeks.
Unlike other common viruses, adenovirus not only affects person’s upper and lower respiratory tract, but also other groups of organs, including the eyes, the gastrointestinal tract, and the kidneys.
Since the spread is rapid, with a record amount of cases reported in the UK alone, medical professionals are trying to raise awareness regarding the possible indicators of the condition.
“It is spread from breathing in infected aerosol droplets, by inadvertently rubbing the virus directly into the eye, or via the faecal-oral route (not handwashing after using the toilet),” Dr Deborah Lee at Dr Fox Online Pharmacy explained, as per Cosmopolitan.
“It spreads rapidly in places where people are in close proximity.”
She added: “The virus is resistant to soap and many other commonly used cleaning products.”
The virus can affect people of all ages and as is the case with many other diseases, those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions are more likely to develop more severe illness.
“Adenovirus is a typical virus that causes the common cold and/or flu-like symptoms,” Dr Lee continued.
Most patients developed fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Additional symptoms that may appear in severe cases include conjunctivitis, earache, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or urinary tract infection.
“Those most at risk are babies and children under five, the elderly, pregnant women, and anyone who is immunocompromised,” Dr Lee added.
How to avoid adenovirus
In order to prevent infection with adenovirus avoid contact with people who feel unwell, practice good hygiene, and monitor closely for signs and symptoms. While there is no specific treatment, most people get better with rest, and advice from public health authorities is to maintain hygiene, detect infection early, and take practical precautions.
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