Common symptoms of a virus spreading rapidly across the world include nausea, fever and a sore throat.

Cases of adenovirus continue to rise across the globe and, though most bouts are mild, medics are urging both adults and children to be aware of the signs and symptoms. It can present itself in similar ways to Covid-19 or flu, as it is typical to experience a fever, sore throat and frequent sneezing.

Adenovirus is contagious through various forms, including close personal contact, such as shaking hands, and through the air, like by coughing and sneezing. Eric Sachinwalla, an infectious disease doctor based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has stressed anyone should isolate if they experience any of the symptoms below as these could be signs of adenovirus, or any number of other contagious diseases and illnesses.

While there is no known treatment, plenty of rest and fluid will help. Some over-the-counter pain medicines or fever reducers will help ease symptoms, but shouldn't be considered "cures" to rid adenovirus.

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• common cold or flu-like symptoms


• fever


• sore throat


• acute bronchitis (inflammation of the airways of the lungs, sometimes called a "chest cold")


• pneumonia (infection of the lungs)


• pink eye (conjunctivitis)


• acute gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach or intestines causing diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain)



• diarrhoea




• vomiting

The symptoms outlined above are listed on the websites of the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention CDC in the US. It allows says, like all viruses, adenovirus spreads quicker throughout the winter but anyone can contract it at any time of the year.

Dr Sachinwalla said: "It’s pretty contagious because it’s heartier than other viruses – soap and water, or everyday disinfectant, won’t kill it, so it tends to live in the environment longer."

The elderly, pregnant, or immunocompromised may want to keep a closer eye on their symptoms, as they are vulnerable to complications to all viruses and diseases.

Normally the symptoms should begin to go after approximately two days. However if it goes on for longer than three days without any relief, then this is also a red flag.

Dr Sachinwalla explained that a surge in flu cases in the southern hemisphere earlier in the year may have led to a rise in cases in the northern hemisphere now. He added that there is also the factor of fewer people going for a flu jab.

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