Adenovirus in West Bengal: Symptoms & Treatment
The outbreak of Adenovirus is
causing flu-like symptoms in children. This has become a concerning issue in
West Bengal. Reports suggest that since December 2022, this virus has been
severely affecting people and the majority of them are children.
The state health administration
has not yet determined the exact number of deaths caused by Adenovirus. But
unofficial estimates indicate that more than 10 children may have died due to
common Adenovirus symptoms like cold and respiratory issues.
To address this situation, the state health department has issued a warning to medical professionals, particularly pediatricians, to be extra cautious when treating children displaying flu-like symptoms, especially those who are two years old or younger, as they are more susceptible to Adenovirus infections.
What is Adenovirus?
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The majority of adenoviruses induce respiratory illness. The illnesses may differ from the typical cold to pneumonia, croup, and bronchitis. Adenoviruses can also cause other conditions depending on the type, including gastroenteritis, conjunctivitis, cystitis, and, more rarely, neurological disorders.
The virus spreads quickly. Skin-to-skin contact can spread it. Additionally, it can spread through the water and air, through sneezing and coughing, and through the feces of an infected individual.
What are the symptoms of adenovirus?
Adenoviruses can cause mild to severe illness. Adenovirus infections can cause serious illness in people who already have respiratory or cardiac problems, have compromised immune systems, or both.
Numerous diseases, including the flu or symptoms similar to the common cold, can be brought on by adenoviruses.
Symptoms of Adenovirus:
- · Flu-like symptoms or common cold
- Fever and a sore tongue
- pneumonia
- conjunctivitis
- acute gastroenteritis;
- acute bronchitis (lung airway inflammation, also referred to as a "chest cold")
- Stomach or intestines inflammation resulting in vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, and stomach pain
Illness or inflammation of the bladder is a less frequent sign of an adenovirus illness. Neurologic conditions (conditions that affect the brain and spinal cord) can also happen in extreme cases.
What is the treatment for adenovirus?
Adenovirus infections cannot be treated with any approved antiviral drugs or methods. Most adenovirus infections are minor, so rest, painkillers or fever reducers can be used to treat them.
Therefore, the simplest method to maintain good health is to refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. whenever possible, sanitize the area surrounding you and your hands. See a doctor if you suffer any of the symptoms.
How long does adenovirus last?
Severe infections may continue longer and result in persistent symptoms, including a cough, but most adenovirus infections last between a few days and a week or two.
Can adenovirus be killed by antibiotics?
Since antibiotics only kill bacteria, they cannot treat viral infections. Adenovirus is caused by a virus.
How is adenovirus spread?
Skin-to-skin contact, the air and water,
coughing and sneezing, and the feces of an infected person are all ways through
which the virus can spread.
Therefore, the simplest way to maintain good
health is to refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. whenever
possible, sanitize the area surrounding you and your hands. Consult a doctor if
you suffer any of the symptoms.
FAQs
Q: Is swimming safe during an adenovirus viral outbreak?
Swimming is not safe during the
adenovirus pandemic.
Q: Adenoviruses may not just harm youngsters.
No, anyone can get infected by it.
However, Children are more susceptible to it.
