ADENOVIRUS CASES SPIKE IN WEST BENGAL: KNOW ALL ABOUT ADENOVIRUS

The state's health department issued an alert after West Bengal saw an increase in cases of acute respiratory infection (viral). the chief medical officers of several districts have been instructed to assess the level of preparedness for the sickness that most severely affects children. Children with fever, colds, and coughs are reportedly filling public and private hospitals in Kolkata and other regions, according to officials.

WHAT IS ADENOVIRUS? Adenovirus is a common virus that can lead to a variety of diseases that resemble the flu or the common cold. About 50 different variations of adenoviruses that can infect humans have been identified by researchers. Although adenovirus infections can happen at any time of the year, they usually peak in the winter and early spring. The severity of infections can range from moderate to severe, but serious illness is uncommon.

WHOM DOES ADENOVIRUS AFFECT? Adenoviruses can affect people of all ages. But they’re most common in children younger than 5 years old. The spread of adenoviruses in adults can occur in crowded environments. people with a weakened immune system are more likely to get seriously ill from an adenovirus infection.

CAUSES OF ADENOVIRUS Adenoviruses are usually spread from an infected person to others through close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands, and the air by coughing and sneezing. Touching an object or surface with adenoviruses on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands. Some adenoviruses can spread through an infected person’s stool.

SYMPTOMS OF ADENOVIRUS Symptoms of adenovirus include- common cold or flu-like symptoms, fever, sore throat, acute bronchitis (inflammation of the airways of the lungs, sometimes called a “chest cold”), pneumonia, pink eye, acute gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach or intestines causing diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain)

TREATMENTS FOR ADENOVIRUS There are no approved antiviral medicines and no specific treatment for people with adenovirus infection. Most adenovirus infections are mild and may be managed with rest and over-the-counter pain medicines or fever reducers to help relieve symptoms. Always read the label and use medications as directed.

Medical Dialogues Explore