The killer cold virus is being called a medical mystery. It is a virus that starts like a cold but can become deadly. The adenovirus is known mostly for causing colds and pink eyes. It spreads through contact and the air we breathe. Adenoviruses or killer cold viruses often cause acute upper respiratory tract infections like the common cold but also can cause other illnesses, including inflammation of the stomach and intestines, pink eye, bladder infection, and rashes. A mild infection with an adenovirus will likely cause more cold-like symptoms, but sometimes the disease is more severe, causing issues more similar to the flu, such as a fever and body aches. Individuals, adults, and children alike recover quickly from adenovirus infections. However, people who have a weakened immune system, an existing respiratory infection, or certain heart conditions might be affected more severely.
Modern diagnostic tests can identify adenovirus within hours, but doctors stress the key is identifying its symptoms before they become life-threatening.
How does the adenovirus spread?
Killer cold virus infections are primarily spread from infected persons to others when respiratory hygiene is not performed. Proper respiratory health includes covering your mouth when coughing and promptly cleaning your hands. Respiratory hygiene is an easy way to prevent infections spread by respiratory droplets, like the adenovirus.
Respiratory hygiene consists of:
- Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing;
- Throwing away your tissues in the nearest trash can; and
- Performing hand hygiene after coughing/sneezing/disposing of tissues.
