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Adenovirus

Adenoviruses are a group of viruses known to cause the “common cold," as well as other types of infections such as diarrhea, pink eye, bladder infections, and skin rashes.

Anyone can experience illness due to adenoviruses. Infants, people with weakened immune systems, or existing heart and lung disease are at higher risk of getting sick from an adenovirus infection.

Adenovirus is not a reportable disease in Oklahoma.

You can protect yourself and others from adenovirus infection by: 

  • Washing your hands often with soap and water; 
  • Covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing; 
  • Not touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; 
  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick;
  • Staying home when you are sick;         
  • Frequent hand washing, which is especially important in childcare settings.                                                                                                                                                

There is no specific treatment for adenovirus except managing the symptoms. This would include getting plenty of rest, drinking plenty of fluids, as well as using fever-reducing medicines. Antibiotics cannot treat adenovirus. Adenovirus symptoms last from a few days to a week. Severe lung infections, such as pneumonia, may last as long as 2 to 4 weeks.

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