[Adenovirus infection].

Abstract

What are adenoviruses? Adenoviruses are common viruses that can cause illness in humans. Most infections with adenovirus result in respiratory illnesses and are not serious. Who gets adenovirus infection? Anyone can be infected by adenoviruses. Most infections are mild. Serious illness can occur in infants, those with weak immune systems, or those with existing respiratory or cardiac disease. Outbreaks can occur where people are in close quarters. How is adenovirus infection spread? Adenoviruses spread very easily from one person to another and can also survive for a long time on objects. The virus may be spread through contact with droplets from the nose and throat of an infected person (e.g., during coughing or sneezing) or by touching an object or surface with the viruses on it and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes before hand washing. Some adenoviruses can spread through an infected person's stool (for example, during diaper changing). Adenoviruses can also spread through the water, such as swimming pools, but this is less common.