Definition

Adenovirus is a common virus that can cause:

• The common cold, acute bronchitis, or pneumonia
• Infection of the eye called conjunctivitis
• Urinary tract infection
• Intestine infections

These infections can be more serious in those with weak immune systems. Examples are people with AIDS or organ transplants.

Causes

Adenoviruses pass from person to person. People get infected from:

• Inhaling the virus—when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• Shaking hands with an infected person
• Exposure to infected stool, water, tissue, or blood
• Touching an object that contains the virus

The Upper Respiratory Tract

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Risk Factors

These infections are common in children. Other things that raise the risk are:

• Being in closed or crowded settings, such as:
  • Long term care homes
  • Schools or summer camps
  • Public swimming pools
• A weak immune system

Symptoms

Adenoviruses can infect the:

• Nose, throat, and lungs
• Eyes
• Intestines
• Urinary tract

Symptoms depend on where the infection is. They may include:

• General symptoms such as:
  • Fever
  • Painless lumps in the neck, underarms, belly, or groin
  • Headache
• Respiratory symptoms such as:
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Cough
• Intestinal symptoms such as:
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Belly cramps
• Urinary symptoms such as:
  • Urinating often
  • Burning, pain, and/or blood in the urine
• Red, irritated eyes

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.

A sample of body fluids may be taken and tested, such as:

• Mucous from throat or nose
• Stool
• Blood
• Urine

People with weak immune systems may need other tests.

Treatment

There are no specific treatments for adenoviruses. The infections usually end on their own. People with severe infections may need supportive care.

Options are:

• Rest, fluids, moist air, and pain medicines
• Eye ointments or drops—for conjunctivitis
• IV fluids—for severe vomiting or diarrhea
• Special medicines—for people with weak immune systems

Prevention

Adenovirus may be prevented by:

• Avoiding contact with infected persons
• Washing hands often
• Not touching the nose, mouth, or eyes
• Washing and cleaning surfaces and objects