How To Protect Your Child From Adenovirus: An Expert Advice

The outbreak of Adenovirus is increasing rapidly in West Bengal. According to the report of the health department, this virus is infecting children the most.  The Health Department has issued important guidelines. In this blog, we will tell you about the symptoms of Adenovirus, and preventive measures to keep your child safe from this virus. You will also learn from the Expert about how to know if your child is suffering from Adenovirus. 

What is Adenovirus 

With the rise in numbers of Adenovirus infections in West Bengal, hundreds of patients including children are falling ill with fever, cough, and other respiratory problems. For you, it is important to understand the adenovirus infection and ways to protect your child. 

Adenovirus is a common virus that can cause a range of cold- or flu-like infections. These infections occur throughout the year, but it tends to peak in the winter and early spring. Infections range from mild to severe.

Given the outbreak of Adenovirus, our Expert Dr. Janardhan Reddy, Senior Pediatrician has answered questions to guide you on how to protect your child from it. 

What are the causes of Adenovirus 

Adenovirus spreads through person-to-person contact, respiratory droplets, contaminated surfaces, dirty diapers, and poor hand hygiene. Adenovirus Infection can happen to anyone but it has been found to affect children more frequently. A child may get at least one type of adenovirus infection by the time s/he is 10 years old.

Who do adenoviruses affect

Adenovirus can affect people of all ages, but a child under the age of 5 is most vulnerable, particularly if the child attends daycare centers, schools, or other crowded environments. The virus also spreads in hospitals and nursing homes.  A child with weak immunity levels is more likely to get affected by this virus.

How can you know if a child is affected by Adenovirus 

Common symptoms include 

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• red or watery eyes

What are the symptoms that require immediate attention

Symptoms that require immediate attention include difficulty in breathing, persistent vomiting, high fever, confusion, lethargy, severe headache, chest pain, and severe abdominal pain. If you notice these symptoms and suspect that your child has adenovirus, contact your Doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan as soon as possible.

How is Adenovirus different from cold and cough

Adenovirus is different from other cold and cough viruses as it can cause a range of illnesses beyond the common cold, including conjunctivitis, gastroenteritis, and pneumonia. Additionally, adenovirus can cause severe illness in people with weakened immune systems.

How does Adenovirus transmit 

Adenovirus is transmitted through contact with an infected person's respiratory or fecal matter.  It transmits easily from one child to another, especially when they are in close contact. Adenovirus remains viable on objects and surfaces for a long time, and alcohol-based sanitizers do not kill it. 

Be aware of the symptoms of adenovirus and seek your Doctor’s advice if your child shows signs of this illness. Keep your child at home and do not send him/her to school or daycare if your child is showing any symptoms.

Can Adenovirus be prevented

Adenovirus can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. Role model & encourage your child to practice good hygiene, including covering their mouth when coughing or sneezing.

How is Adenovirus Infection Treated

1. Most adenovirus infections can be treated at home with your Doctor’s advice.
2. You can take care of these while your child is recovering. 
3. Make sure your child gets enough sleep
4. Get plenty of fluids

Antihistamines for cold and upper respiratory symptoms as per Doctor’s advice. Remember to consult a Pediatrician

Keep in mind this advice from the Pediatrician. If your child is under 5 years of age and falls sick often, it is possible to mistake it for the common cold and cough. But now that you are aware of Adenovirus infection,  its symptoms, and preventive measures; you know the importance of timely intervention from your Doctor.  Sometimes, the only difference between recovery and deterioration is the ‘right diagnosis’. In case you found this Expert blog useful, remember to help fellow parents of under 5 years old children especially and share this information with them. Educate them on Adenovirus and how they can protect their child. 

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