Adenovirus: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Adenovirus is a group of viruses that commonly causes respiratory infections such as the common cold, bronchitis, croup, or pneumonia. It can also affect the digestive system, nervous system, and eyes, leading to conditions like diarrhea, encephalitis, or conjunctivitis.

Adenovirus spreads easily through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through contaminated surfaces or contact with infected stool. Because of how easily adenovirus spreads, infections are more common in children and in places with close contact, such as schools and daycare centers.

Adenovirus symptoms vary depending on the part of the body affected and may include fever, cough, sore throat, diarrhea, vomiting, or red eyes. Most cases are mild and improve with rest, fluids, and symptom relief, but some infections can be more serious and require medical evaluation, especially in children or people with weakened immune systems.

Adenovirus symptoms

The most common symptoms of adenovirus infection are:

• Fever or cough

• Stuffy or runny nose

• Sore throat, ear pain, or headache

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea or abdominal pain

• Red, irritated, or watery eyes

In addition, if the nervous system is affected, symptoms such as neck and back stiffness, muscle weakness, confusion, seizures, or, in rare cases, paralysis may occur.

A primary care provider or pediatrician should be consulted for adenovirus symptoms so a diagnosis can be confirmed and the most appropriate treatment can be started.

How long do symptoms last?

Symptoms of adenovirus infection usually start about 2 to 14 days after contact with the virus. They may last a few days or up to 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of illness it causes.

Adenovirus symptoms are usually mild. However, symptoms can be severe in children, people with weakened immune systems, or people with respiratory or heart disease.

Confirming a diagnosis

Adenovirus infection is diagnosed by a primary care provider, pediatrician, or infectious disease specialist based on symptoms, a physical exam, medical history, and laboratory tests.

Tests that may be ordered include molecular tests such as PCR to detect adenovirus in respiratory samples, as well as stool tests in cases with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. In some situations, blood tests or antigen detection tests may also be used.

In severe cases, the doctor may order a PCR test to detect adenovirus in respiratory secretions or blood.

If encephalitis is suspected, a lumbar puncture may be performed to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and check for signs of infection, including adenovirus.

Adenovirus and pediatric hepatitis

Adenovirus infection has been associated with some cases of pediatric hepatitis, especially adenovirus type 41, which has been found in some children with acute hepatitis symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting.

However, adenovirus is not considered a common cause of hepatitis, and the exact relationship is still unclear. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the cause of these cases remains unknown and under investigation.

How it spreads

Transmission can also occur by touching a surface contaminated with adenovirus and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Adenovirus can also spread through contact with contaminated stool, such as during diaper changes. According to the CDC, some adenoviruses can also spread through water, such as swimming pools, although this is less common.

Treatment options

Treatment for adenovirus infection should be guided by a healthcare provider. In most cases, no specific treatment is needed, as the infection usually improves within a few days.

However, a healthcare provider may recommend certain measures to help relieve symptoms, such as:

1. Increasing fluid intake

Increasing fluid intake, especially water, is very important to prevent dehydration due to fever, particularly in children.

Fruit juices, unsweetened teas, smoothies, and soups can also help with hydration and provide nutrients that support recovery and help the body fight the infection.

For babies who have not started solid foods, breast milk should be offered on demand, or formula should be given as usual.

2. Resting

Rest helps your body conserve energy so your immune system can fight the adenovirus infection more effectively. It also limits contact with others, reducing the risk of spreading the virus.

3. Taking medications

In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend medications to help relieve symptoms and prevent complications. These may include:

• Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, to reduce fever and pain

• 0.9% saline solution for nasal irrigation and to help clear a stuffy nose

• Bronchodilators, given through a nebulizer or inhaler, to reduce airway inflammation and make breathing easier

• Lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to relieve eye irritation.

In severe cases, hospitalization may be needed. Treatment may include fluids given directly into a vein (through an IV), or even oxygen through a nasal catheter or noninvasive mechanical ventilation.

4. Eating light, easy-to-digest foods

A light, easy-to-digest diet may be recommended by a healthcare provider to help relieve diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Foods like white bread, white rice, pasta, lean meats, and peeled fruits are good options.

Prevention measures

To prevent adenovirus infection, it is recommended to:

• Avoid staying for long periods in closed or crowded places with poor air circulation, such as malls or gyms

• Avoid contact with people who have the flu or a cold

• Wash your hands well, especially before and after using the bathroom and changing a child’s diaper

• Use hand sanitizer frequently

• Avoid touching surfaces and then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose

• Avoid sharing personal items that may come into contact with saliva droplets or respiratory secretions, such as utensils, cups, and toothbrushes

• Always cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a disposable tissue or your clothing

In addition, hands should be washed regularly with water and mild soap for at least 20 seconds before rinsing to help prevent adenovirus infection and avoid spreading the disease.