Adenovirus Spreading Fast Among Children in West Bengal

In the current time of season change, Adenovirus appears to be taking an alarming shape among the children in West Bengal. The state health department is yet to compile the definite figure of deaths of children being affected by Adenovirus, unofficial estimates indicate that more than ten children could have died of adenovirus. The state health department has issued an advisory for doctors, especially pediatricians to take special care of children being admitted with flu-like symptoms, especially children of two years of age or below since they are most vulnerable to being affected by Adenovirus.

All You Need to Know About Adenovirus

Adenoviruses are a group of widespread viruses that affect the lining of our nervous system, intestines, urinary tract, eyes, and lungs. More children than adults contract the virus.

The common symptoms of Adenovirus are a common cold, respiratory issues, fever, sore throat, pneumonia, ear infection, conjunctivitis, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain.

Adenovirus is contagious and can be more dangerous for those with weakened immune systems, such as children, in public areas. Very contagious, it is prevalent in close-contact environments including daycare facilities, schools, and hospitals.

The virus can spread through skin contacts, by air through coughing and sneezing, and by an infected person`s stool. So far, there have not been any approved medicines or any specific treatment line to treat the virus.

During the last couple of weeks, there has been an increase in admissions at the pediatric childcare units in state-run hospitals. Most of the childcare units in these hospitals are already overloaded.

The ventilators there are almost 100 percent occupied. A similar rush of admission in pediatric childcare units has been reported from private hospitals and nursing homes. Be vigilant about the flu symptoms to avoid further complications.

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Source-IANS