Adenovirus is a group of common viruses that can infect the lining of the eyes, airways and lungs, intestines, urinary tract, and nervous system. They are highly contagious and can cause a range of cold- or flu-like infections. Here are some key points about adenovirus:

• Symptoms: Adenoviruses can cause fever, coughs, sore throats, diarrhea, and pink eye. Each type of adenovirus can affect a person differently, and symptoms can range from mild to severe.

• Transmission: Adenovirus can spread through droplets when someone with an infection coughs or sneezes. Fecal material (poop) can also spread the infection via contaminated water, dirty diapers, and poor hand washing. Outbreaks of adenovirus at summer camps are linked to contaminated water in swimming pools and lakes. Adenoviruses can survive on surfaces for a long time, so they can spread on contaminated toys and other objects.

• Treatment: Most adenovirus infections are mild and get better on their own in a few days. Treatment usually involves managing symptoms, such as taking over-the-counter pain relievers for fever and pain. Antibiotics are not effective against adenoviruses because they are caused by a virus, not bacteria.

• Prevention: The best way to prevent adenovirus infection is to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands. There is also a vaccine available for military personnel that can protect against some types of adenovirus.