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How to prevent adenovirus infection in children and adults

2025-09-05

Adenovirus Infection is a common viral illness affecting children and adults, causing respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. Learn how to recognize, prevent, and manage it effectively.

What are the main causes of adenovirus infection?

  • Adenovirus spreads primarily through direct contact with infected people, surfaces, or objects, making close interactions a major source of infection.
  • Respiratory droplets released during coughing or sneezing can transmit the virus rapidly in crowded environments such as schools and offices.
  • Touching contaminated surfaces, then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, allows adenovirus to enter the body and trigger an infection.

Key symptoms of adenovirus infection to watch for

  • Fever is one of the most common symptoms, often accompanied by fatigue, body aches, and general discomfort throughout the day.
  • Respiratory issues like sore throat, coughing, and nasal congestion are frequently observed, sometimes resembling a common cold or flu.
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, can occur, especially in children or immunocompromised individuals.
Key symptoms of adenovirus infection to watch for
Key symptoms of adenovirus infection to watch for

>>>Learn more: Understanding middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS) risks

How can you prevent adenovirus infection effectively?

  • Practice frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after contact with potentially contaminated surfaces or before eating.
  • Avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of respiratory illness, maintaining distance to reduce the risk of viral spread.
  • Disinfect commonly touched surfaces regularly, such as doorknobs, phones, and keyboards, to minimize potential viral contamination.

>>>Learn more: Understanding severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

Image description of adenovirus infection

Adenovirus Infection is a viral illness affecting the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. It spreads easily through contact and causes fever, cough, and digestive issues.

Explore common adenovirus symptoms in children and adults
Explore common adenovirus symptoms in children and adults
Learn safe adenovirus treatment methods for recovery
Learn safe adenovirus treatment methods for recovery
Understand the role of adenovirus vaccine in prevention
Understand the role of adenovirus vaccine in prevention
Identify adenovirus conjunctivitis signs early in patients
Identify adenovirus conjunctivitis signs early in patients
Recognize severe adenovirus pneumonia risks in infants
Recognize severe adenovirus pneumonia risks in infants
Monitor adenovirus in infants for early care and support
Monitor adenovirus in infants for early care and support
Follow tips for adenovirus prevention at home and school
Follow tips for adenovirus prevention at home and school
Know how adenovirus cold spreads and how to manage it
Know how adenovirus cold spreads and how to manage it

>>>Learn more: Recognizing early signs of parainfluenza virus infection

Understanding Adenovirus Infection helps you act early and reduce complications. Follow prevention tips, seek medical guidance, and stay informed to protect your health and your loved ones.