Adenovirus: A Potential Danger to Your Child

• Adenovirus can affect multiple body systems and cause illnesses such as flu-like symptoms, sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, and pink eye.
• Infants under three months of age are most at risk of developing severe symptoms. Parents should be especially alert and should seek medical advice promptly if their child appears lethargic or refuses fluids.
• Adenovirus can survive on surfaces for up to 30 days, allowing it to spread year-round.
   

Adenovirus is a common virus that can affect various bodily systems, causing a wide range of illnesses, including influenza-like symptoms, sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis (pink eye). Symptoms may be mild in some cases but can become severe or even life-threatening, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Infants are at higher risk than adults, especially those under three months of age, children with weakened immune systems, or those with underlying respiratory or heart conditions. Unlike many respiratory viruses, adenovirus circulates throughout the year and is not associated with a specific season.

Adenovirus can be transmitted in several ways:

• Through aerosol droplets produced by coughing or sneezing
• Via the fecal–oral route
• Through contact with contaminated objects (fomites), such as toys or surfaces

The virus is notably resilient and can survive on surfaces for up to 30 days. While this durability contributes to its year-round spread, adenovirus can be destroyed using disinfectants such as bleach, as well as extreme heat or formaldehyde.

Symptoms vary depending on which body system is affected and the overall health of the infected individual. Most infections involve fever and may be accompanied by:

• Sore throat or hoarse voice
• Runny or congested nose
• Cough
• Ear infection
• Pink eye
• Diarrhea

Infants under three months of age are at the greatest risk of developing severe illness. Parents should seek medical attention if their baby appears lethargic, or refuses to drink water or milk.

Diagnosis typically involves collecting secretion samples from the nose, throat, or stool, which are then analysed in a laboratory to identify the virus.

There is no specific cure for adenovirus, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting recovery. Parents should ensure their child:

• Gets plenty of rest
• Stays well hydrated
• Clears nasal secretions regularly
• Receives age-appropriate fever-reducing medication when needed

If symptoms worsen, parents should take their child to the hospital. A pediatrician may recommend treatments such as intravenous fluids, bronchodilator medications, or oxygen therapy. In severe cases, or for high-risk patients with underlying medical conditions, antiviral medications may be considered under close medical supervision.

The most effective way to prevent adenovirus infection is good hygiene. Key preventive measures include:

• Frequent handwashing with soap or alcohol-based hand gel
• Regularly cleaning and disinfecting household surfaces, including tables, chairs, and children’s toys
• Avoiding crowded places with infants
• Keeping children away from individuals who are sick

Teaching children to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing is also strongly recommended to reduce the spread of infection.