Adenovirus

Adenovirus derives its name from its initial isolation from human adenoids in 1953. To date over 50 types have been identified which are immunologically distinct. They are unusually stable to chemical or physical agents and adverse pH conditions, enabling their prolonged survival outside of the body and water. They are spread primarily via respiratory droplets, however, they can also be spread by fecal routes. Some people infected with adenoviruses can have ongoing infections in their tonsils, adenoids, and intestines that do not cause symptoms and they can shed the virus for months or years. Most infections with adenovirus result in infections of the upper respiratory tract such as conjunctivitis, tonsillitis, ear infection, or croup. Adenoviruses types 40 and 41 can also cause gastroenteritis. In babies, adenoviruses can cause coughing fits that look almost exactly like whooping cough, viral meningitis or encephalitis. Most people recover from adenovirus infections on their own, although fatal infections can occur in immunocompromised individuals.