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What Causes Adenovirus Infection?

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Posted on Mon, 3 Feb 2014
Twitter Mon, 3 Feb 2014 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 26 Feb 2014 Last reviewed on
Question : My son has(d) adenovirus, first showing symptoms 10 days ago. We did not use any medications and he is still coughing with green mucous, but, no fever, not lethargic, and overall in good spirits. Is he still contagious?
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Answered by Dr. Praveen G (1 hour later)
Brief Answer: Communicability of Adenovirus Detailed Answer: Hello, Adenovirus infections most commonly cause illness of the respiratory system. Infections tend to get better in a few days, although coughs and eye infections often last longer. Usually respiratory symptoms may develop in 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Most infections are mild and require no therapy or only symptomatic treatment. Because there is no virus-specific therapy. Adenovirus infections are most contagious during the first few days of symptoms, persons who are exposed to them during first 3-4 days may develop symptoms. Some patients can carry the virus in their tonsils, adenoids and intestines for months or years and not have any symptoms, but still be able to spread the virus to others. Only good health habits can prevent you from getting adenovirus infection.These include covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, washing hands often, avoiding touching the eyes, nose or mouth and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. There is no vaccine generally available to prevent adenovirus infection. Hope i have answered your query, if you any query regarding this you are free to post me. Thank you.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Dr. Praveen G

Infectious Diseases Specialist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 2448 Questions

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What Causes Adenovirus Infection?

Brief Answer: Communicability of Adenovirus Detailed Answer: Hello, Adenovirus infections most commonly cause illness of the respiratory system. Infections tend to get better in a few days, although coughs and eye infections often last longer. Usually respiratory symptoms may develop in 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Most infections are mild and require no therapy or only symptomatic treatment. Because there is no virus-specific therapy. Adenovirus infections are most contagious during the first few days of symptoms, persons who are exposed to them during first 3-4 days may develop symptoms. Some patients can carry the virus in their tonsils, adenoids and intestines for months or years and not have any symptoms, but still be able to spread the virus to others. Only good health habits can prevent you from getting adenovirus infection.These include covering the mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, washing hands often, avoiding touching the eyes, nose or mouth and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. There is no vaccine generally available to prevent adenovirus infection. Hope i have answered your query, if you any query regarding this you are free to post me. Thank you.