Adenovirus infection
Adenoviruses are a group of common viruses that can affect the airways, eyes or gut. They infect people of all ages throughout the year. Most infections are mild, but pneumonia and other serious illness can occur, especially in people with weakened immune systems or existing heart or lung disease. A person may continue to release the virus after feeling better.
Prevention: Behavior
Symptoms
- Fever, sore throat and cough
- Red or irritated eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Diarrhea, vomiting or stomach pain
- Some infections cause pneumonia
Transmission
- Close contact and respiratory particles from coughing or sneezing
- Contaminated hands or surfaces, followed by touching the face
- Contact with infected stool, including during diaper changes
- Less commonly, contaminated swimming water
Prevention
Wash hands regularly, especially after changing diapers and before eating. Improve indoor ventilation and reduce close contact while ill. Properly maintained swimming pools help reduce waterborne spread. No adenovirus vaccine is available to the general public.
Diagnosis and care
Most people recover with supportive care. A healthcare professional can assess persistent or severe illness; there is no routine specific antiviral treatment.
Source
- About Adenovirus
Based on CDC information
Source language: English
Source reviewed: December 16, 2025
Source accessed: May 17, 2026
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