Adenovirus may not have a household name like the flu or the common cold, but it is one of the most common causes of viral infections. Most people will have at least one adenovirus infection before they are 10 years old, and because there are many different types, you may have more than one during your lifetime.
UKHSA monitors weekly positive data for common respiratory viruses including adenovirus, human metapneumovirus (hMPV), parainfluenza, and rhinovirus. Latest figures from our data dashboard. This happens with us. Flu and COVID-19 Surveillance.
What is adenovirus?
Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that cause a variety of infections. Unlike the flu, which typically peaks in the winter, adenoviruses do not follow a seasonal pattern. Infection can occur at any time of the year.
Adenovirus infections are most common in infants and young children, but people of all ages can be affected.
What are the symptoms of adenovirus?
Symptoms are usually mild and similar to the common cold.
- having fever
- sore throat
- A runny or stuffy nose
- cough
Adenoviruses can also cause other illnesses, including conjunctivitis (pink eye), lung infections (such as bronchitis and pneumonia), croup (barking cough in children), ear infections, and gastroenteritis (stomach worms). Adenovirus can be more serious in people with weakened immune systems.
How is adenovirus spread?
Adenovirus is highly contagious and spreads easily in settings where people come into close contact, such as daycare centers, schools, hospitals, and nursing homes.
The virus can spread through:
- Droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes
- close personal contact, such as shaking hands
- After touching a contaminated surface, you touch your mouth, nose, or eyes.
- Contact with feces from an infected person, for example during a diaper change
- Contaminated water in swimming pools or lakes (although this is less common)
Because adenovirus can survive on surfaces for a long time, shared objects can become a source of infection. Symptoms usually appear between 2 days and 2 weeks after exposure.
People may continue to shed the virus even after recovery, sometimes without showing any symptoms. This means you can still spread the virus to other people. This is especially common in people with weakened immune systems.
How is it treated?
Most adenovirus infections clear up on their own with rest and plenty of fluids. If fever causes discomfort, paracetamol may help, and a humidifier or saltwater snot may relieve stuffy nose.
People who have vomiting and diarrhea and cannot drink enough fluids may need treatment for dehydration. More serious cases may require hospital treatment, especially in very young babies, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.
Most infections last anywhere from a few days to a week or two, but severe cases may take longer to resolve.
How can I prevent myself from getting infected or passing it on?
Good hygiene is your best defense against adenovirus.
- Use bleach to keep shared surfaces and objects clean.
- Staying home when you have symptoms
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or tissue, not your hands.
When should you seek medical advice?
Call your doctor if you or someone you care for has:
- If you have a high fever or it lasts for more than a few days
- have trouble breathing
- If you are less than 3 months old or have a weakened immune system
- If you have red eyes, eye pain, or changes in vision
- If you have severe diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration
Adenovirus infections are common and usually mild, but knowing what to look out for can help you manage your symptoms at home and recognize when you need professional advice.
