Adenovirus are a group of viruses which belong to the family Adenoviridae. This family includes 5 genera – Mastadenovirus, Aviadenovirus, Atadenovirus, Siadenovirus, and Ichtadenovirus. Genus Mastadenovirus includes the viruses of humans and other mammalian species such as bats, dogs, ruminants, horses, swine etc.
First human adenovirus (HAdV) was identified from human adenoids (mass of soft tissue behind the nasal cavity) in 1950s. This virus is named after its first referencing place of discovery.
Interesting Adenovirus Facts You Must Know
- Currently, more than 100 strains of adenovirus are known.
- 51 types of adenoviruses are identified to have caused infection in humans.
- People of any age can contract Adenovirus infection. But, it is more common in kids under the age of 5.
- As per epidemiological studies, Enteric adenoviruses are a leading cause of gastroenteritis among children after rotavirus and noroviruses.
- Recent studies also show that five subtypes of human adenovirus Ad5, Ad9, Ad31, Ad36, and Ad37, and a non-human adenovirus (SMAM1) are found to be responsible for causing adiposity.
- Currently, there are no vaccines and medicines available for general public health.
- Oral adenovirus Type 4 and Type 7 Vaccine are approved only for use in military teams to prevent the risk of developing risk of ARDS – Severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. Adenovirus vaccine should be swallowed whole to avoid release of the virus into the upper respiratory tract.
Also Read: Candida Auris: Facts, Symptoms & Treatment
Causes of Adenovirus Infection
Adenovirus is a contagious virus and can be easily transmitted via droplets emitted by infected people during coughing or sneezing. Additionally, people can also contract infection by touching eyes, nose, and mouth without washing their hands after close contact with patients or surfaces contaminated with viral pathogens.
Symptoms of Adenovirus
Human adenovirus mainly infects the respiratory system and results in following symptoms –
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
- Sore throat (pharyngitis)
- Chest cold (bronchitis)
- Pneumonia
While other clinical manifestations of Adenovirus could be gastroenteritis, bladder inflammation, and rash illness (exanthema). Most adenovirus infections are not severe and usually last for 3-5 days. However, an acute viral infection can last for more than two weeks.
Also Read: Top Facts about Norovirus
Prevention and Control Measures for Adenovirus
Adenovirus are highly contagious in nature and can readily spread from person to person. Hence, preventive measures are the best way to protect yourself against infection and slow down its transmission as well.
Prevention tips that can reduce risk of Adenovirus include –
- Wash your hands frequently – Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap/ cleanser.
- Disinfection of commonly used surfaces – Adenovirus tends to remain infectious on hard non living surfaces for a long time period. Surfaces contaminated with viral particles can serve as reservoirs of potential pathogens. Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces help to create a sterile environment which is unsuitable for breeding germs. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using EPA registered disinfectants claiming virucidal activity against Adenovirus.
- Practice social distancing – Physical distancing in indoor and outdoor spaces can limit exposure to viruses and slow down its transmission rate.
- Keep your hands off your face – Constant face touching means you can intensify your risk of getting infected.
Uses of Adenovirus Microorganisms at MIS lab
MIS is a leading provider of comprehensive antiviral testing services to global manufacturers in the disinfectants, textiles, and plastics/coatings industries. Our wide range of services covers a broad spectrum of testing needs, ensuring that your products meet the highest standards of efficacy against viral threats.
To validate efficacy claims of virucidal disinfectant formulations, we perform testing analysis against Human Adenovirus type 5 (ATCC VR-5) and other obligatory strains for ISO 18184, ISO 21702, EN 14476 etc.
Based on years of extensive research and development by our experts in the field of virology, we’ve established a robust testing platform. Our experts ensure comprehensive solutions to meet client needs.
To find more about our microbiology testing services, contact our experts here.
