[3 min read]
In this article:
- Social media health algorithims have boosted an interest in adenoviruses, a common group of bugs that can cause a wide range of illnesses, from mild respiratory infections to more severe diseases.
- While most of us recover quickly from an infection, some people can be seriously affected, including very young children and those with pre-existing conditions.
- A Providence Swedish pediatric infectious disease specialist has more information about the best practices for protecting yourself from these germs.
Recently, pesky germs called adenoviruses have been trending on social media, with users sharing their symptoms and illness trajectory. Luckily, we have not seen adenoviruses trending in Washington State—at the moment. (Though there was an uptick in cases locally last fall.)
So, what are these #viruses? Adenoviruses are a common group of viruses that cause a wide range of illnesses, from mild respiratory infections to more severe diseases. These viruses circulate year-round and can affect people of all ages, making them a persistent presence in both community and healthcare settings. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adenoviruses most commonly lead to cold or flulike symptoms, pneumonia, bronchitis, conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis, and in rare cases, neurological disease.
What Is Adenovirus?
Adenoviruses are uniquely durable viruses and can infect multiple organ systems, leading to a broad range of symptoms.
“It’s a unique group of viruses,” says Frank Bell, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Providence Swedish. “Many viruses have what we call an envelope surrounding the core of the virus. It derives from our own cells that the virus uses to build itself in our body. The envelope also makes viruses more susceptible to things like detergents. Adenoviruses have no envelope — or outer lining — that’s less disrupted by alcohol and hand sanitizers and so can remain infectious for extended periods.”
Common Symptoms
Depending on the strain, symptoms may include:
- Runny nose, cough, fever, sore throat
- Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Infections can last from three to 10 days, though more severe cases can linger for weeks.
Who Is Most Vulnerable?
While adenovirus infections are often mild, certain populations face a greater risk of complications. “People with weakened immune systems may shed viruses longer and are more prone to severe illness. For most people, the normal measures are enough to protect them,” says Dr. Bell. “But adenovirus outbreaks are hard to control , so in places like neonatal intensive care units and daycares it’s a more complex issue and infection preventionists are key workers in helping to preven the onward spread of infection. ”
Those at greater risk include:
- Young children, particularly those under age 5
- Immunocompromised individuals, including people undergoing chemotherapy or living with chronic conditions
- People with underlying heart or lung disease
- Individuals living in crowded environments such as daycares, long-term care facilities, and military barracks
Prevention Tips
Key steps for avoiding infection include:
- Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Using EPA-registered disinfectants effective against adenovirus
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
- Keeping children home when ill
- Regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces
Because adenovirus is resistant to many disinfectants, prevention requires strong hygiene practices. “It’s important to be scrupulous with hand hygiene and wipe down door handles, kitchen surfaces and other high-touch areas,” says Dr. Bell. “And make sure to quickly dispose of snotty tissues!”
Learn more and find a physician or advanced practice clinician (APC)
Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult a doctor virtually, Providence Swedish is here for you. Contact Swedish Primary Care to schedule an appointment with a primary care provider. You can also connect virtually with your clinician to review your symptoms, provide instruction and follow up as needed. And with Swedish ExpressCare Virtual you can receive treatment in minutes for common conditions such as colds, flu, urinary tract infections, and more. You can use our provider directory to find a specialist or primary care physician near you.
Information for patients and visitors
Additional resources
It’s not The Pitt, it’s real life
Parents, it might be time to rethink this old standby for coughs, colds and allergies
The right place for the right treatment: emergency department, urgent care, or primary care?
Flu season is here. Protect yourself and your family.
This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your health care professional's instructions.
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