The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has highlighted adenovirus as a common, often overlooked virus that infects most people in the UK before their tenth birthday. While winter brings an increase in various viral illnesses, adenovirus stands out because it does not follow a seasonal pattern and can spread throughout the year.
Adenovirus is highly contagious and mainly affects babies and young children. It typically spreads in environments with frequent close contact, such as schools, nurseries, and hospitals. Infection can result in a diverse set of illnesses, ranging from respiratory problems like pneumonia and bronchitis to conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis, and ear infections.
Symptoms of adenovirus infection often resemble those of the common cold and are generally mild. They usually appear within two days to two weeks after exposure. Transmission can occur through contact with surfaces contaminated by respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.
READ MORE: I Spotted Cadbury Mini Eggs in Tesco and Was Floored by the Price
READ MORE: Weston-super-Mare’s Sam Avery Enlists Help from Former Manager to Secure Training Ahead of Historic FA Cup Clash
For most healthy individuals, adenovirus symptoms resolve on their own within a few days to two weeks, though more severe cases can take longer. People with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of serious complications.
UKHSA advises seeking medical attention if an adenovirus infection is suspected and the affected person meets certain criteria, such as worsening symptoms or underlying health conditions. Early diagnosis can help manage complications effectively.
Understanding adenovirus and its symptoms is important for parents and caregivers, especially given its prevalence in young children and its ability to mimic other common illnesses.