What is Adenovirus?
Adenovirus is a group of viruses that can cause various diseases in humans, including toddlers and children. This virus is widespread throughout the world and can infect the respiratory system, digestive tract and pink eye. Adenovirus is susceptible to attacking toddlers and children and is most susceptible to causing acute hepatitis. WHO has focused its attention on the mysterious acute hepatitis disease affecting children in various countries, with the discovery that around 70 percent of cases tested tested positive for Adenovirus. It is important to understand the role of Adenovirus in acute hepatitis in children as it may help in the development of more effective prevention and treatment strategies. Acute hepatitis is a serious condition that can have long-term impacts on children's health. What conditions can this dangerous virus cause?
1. Respiratory Tract Infection
Adenovirus often causes respiratory infections such as colds, sore throats and bronchitis in toddlers and children. Common symptoms that may appear include fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat and difficulty breathing.
2. Conjunctivitis (Eye Inflammation)
Adenovirus can also cause conjunctivitis, known as "pink eye." These symptoms include red, itchy, watery eyes and increased production of eye mucus, causing an uncomfortable feeling.
3. Gastroenteritis
Some types of Adenovirus can cause digestive tract infections, such as diarrhea and vomiting. This can cause dehydration in children, which is a serious problem. Symptoms of gastroenteritis caused by Adenovirus usually include watery diarrhea, vomiting, and possibly fever. In children, dehydration is a serious problem that can arise due to loss of body fluids through vomiting and diarrhea. Therefore, it is important to maintain fluid balance by giving children enough fluids and ensuring they stay hydrated.
4. Tonsil and Lymph Node Infections
Adenoviruses can also cause infections of the tonsils and lymph nodes, which can result in strep throat or diseases such as mononucleosis.
Adenovirus spread
Adenovirus spread can occur in several ways, depending on the type of adenovirus and how the virus is transmitted. The spread of this virus occurs due to several things such as:
- Direct contact: Adenovirus transmission often occurs through direct contact with infected children or toddlers, such as when holding hands, hugging, or playing together.
- Equipment and toys: Adenovirus can survive on the surfaces of toys, equipment, or other objects. Children who touch these objects and then touch their faces can become infected.
- Saliva droplets: The virus can also spread through saliva droplets when children sneeze, cough, or talk.
- Contaminated water and food: Adenovirus can be found in contaminated drinking water or food. This can result in digestive tract infections.
How to Prevent Adenovirus?
Therefore, preventive measures are very necessary to protect toddlers and children from Adenovirus infection, here are several preventive steps that can be taken:
- Wash hands: Teach children to always wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after sneezing, coughing, or using the toilet.
- Don't share personal items: Children should not share personal eating utensils, glasses or toys with others.
- Vaccination: Several countries have developed Adenovirus vaccines to protect against certain types of this virus. Consult your pediatrician about appropriate vaccinations.
- Avoid close contact with sick people: If there are cases of Adenovirus in your area, avoid close contact with sick people.
- Environmental cleanliness: Ensure that children's environments remain clean and regularly clean toys, surfaces and equipment that children frequently touch.
After knowing the serious impact of this virus, it is important to implement hygiene and a healthy lifestyle as above because Adenovirus can cause various diseases in toddlers and children, including respiratory, eye and digestive tract infections. Prevention is key in avoiding the spread of Adenovirus, especially through good hygiene practices and vaccination when available. Parents and caregivers have an important role in protecting children from these infections by educating them about appropriate preventive measures. If your toddler or child shows symptoms of Adenovirus infection, immediately consult our doctors at the nearest EMC Hospital to get appropriate treatment and prevent the possibility of being infected with other diseases.
Article written by Dr. Andina Chrisnawati R, Sp.A, M.Kes (Children's Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).