The UK Health Security Agency has issued guidance on a prevalent viral infection many might not recognize: adenovirus. In a recent post on X, the agency noted, “Although adenovirus might be unfamiliar to some, most individuals contract this typically mild illness by the age of 10.”

Adenoviruses encompass a variety of infections that circulate throughout the year, predominantly affecting infants and young children. Given the numerous strains, individuals can experience multiple infections over their lifetime. This month, a UKHSA blog highlighted four prevalent symptoms: fever, sore throat, nasal congestion or runny nose, and cough.

The blog also mentioned that adenovirus could lead to further complications, including conjunctivitis, respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia, ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues.

The UKHSA emphasized that adenovirus is highly infectious, spreading rapidly in environments where people are in close contact, such as childcare centers, schools, hospitals, and residential care facilities.

These viruses can persist on surfaces for extended periods, making shared items potential sources of transmission. Symptoms generally manifest between two days and two weeks following exposure.

Most infections can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and paracetamol to alleviate fever. The agency also recommended using a humidifier or saline nasal drops to relieve congestion.

The blog added: “Those with vomiting and diarrhoea who cannot drink enough fluids may need treatment for dehydration.

“In more severe cases, particularly in very young babies, elderly people, or those with weakened immune systems, hospital treatment may be necessary.”

Parents should seek help if a patient has a high fever or one that lasts more than a few days, difficulty breathing, or red eyes, eye pain or vision changes.

Severe diarrhoea, vomiting or signs of dehydration may also require medical attention, and infants under three months old or sufferers with weakened immune systems should also contact a doctor.

The UKHSA added that good hygiene is the best defence against adenovirus.

Steps that can reduce risk of spreading infections include keeping shared surfaces clean using a bleach solution, staying home if you have symptoms, washing hands frequently, and coughing and sneezing into your elbow or a tissue.