Human adenovirus infections refer to a group of viral infections caused by human adenoviruses, which are non-enveloped DNA viruses belonging to the Adenoviridae family. Adenoviruses are ubiquitous and can infect humans of all age groups, commonly causing respiratory, ocular, and gastrointestinal diseases. These infections can range from mild to severe and can occur sporadically or in outbreaks.
Respiratory infections caused by human adenoviruses primarily manifest as the common cold, bronchitis, pharyngitis, or pneumonia. Symptoms include cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, sneezing, fever, and malaise. Ocular infections may result in conjunctivitis or keratitis, leading to redness, itching, tearing, and visual impairment. Similarly, gastrointestinal infections can cause gastroenteritis characterized by diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a loss of appetite.
Human adenovirus infections can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, respiratory droplets, or contaminated objects. They can lead to epidemics in closed communities such as schools, military barracks, or daycare centers. Additionally, certain adenovirus serotypes are associated with specific clinical outcomes. For example, adenovirus serotype 14 (Ad14) can cause severe respiratory disease, including pneumonia, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Diagnosis of human adenovirus infections involves clinical evaluation, laboratory testing, and identification of viral antigens or genetic material in patient samples. Treatment usually focuses on alleviating symptoms, as specific antiviral therapies are not widely available. Prevention strategies include good personal hygiene practices, regular handwashing, and adherence to infection control measures in healthcare settings. Vaccines are currently available for preventing some serotypes of human adenovirus infections
