General Physician Doctor in Kolkata

2023 Adenovirus Outbreak in West Bengal, Learn More

Adenovirus is a common group of viruses that causes cold or flu-like infections. According to researchers, there are around 50 types of adenovirus affecting humans. The condition tends to peak around winter and spring.

At present, in West Bengal, there is an outbreak of adenovirus cases. The government has sent 500 samples to NICED and has received information that 32% of the samples were adenovirus cases. Dr. Amitabha Saha, general physician doctor in Kolkata, takes a look at the problem.

What Are the Symptoms of Adenovirus?

The adenovirus commonly affects the respiratory system of the body. Some of the common symptoms include:

  • Cough
  • Chest cold
  • Fever
  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Pink eye
  • Ear infection
  • Pneumonia
  • Swollen lymph nodes

Furthermore, this virus can also affect the gastrointestinal tract of the body causing diarrhoea, and gastroenteritis which shows symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

In the rarest of rare cases, adenovirus can affect even the nervous system causing encephalitis and meningitis. It can also affect the bladder and cause urinary tract infections.

General Physician Doctor in Kolkata

Who Is Vulnerable to Adenovirus?

Children, unfortunately, are very easily affected by adenovirus. People with weak immune systems are also at risk for the condition. If you notice any of the above symptoms, get in touch with an experienced general physician doctor in Kolkata like Dr. Amitabha Saha.

How Does Adenovirus Spread?

Adenovirus is very contagious. It can spread easily through contact like shaking hands, hugging, kissing, or through the air when sneezing or coughing. It can also spread via stools, touching surfaces or objects, and unchlorinated water.

While you may use disinfectants, adenovirus can be quite difficult to tackle, as it remains infectious on surfaces for a long time.

General Physician Doctor in Kolkata

How Is The Adenovirus Diagnosed?

The adenovirus is diagnosed by taking a nose or throat swab. In case you have mild infection, the doctor may treat you for the symptoms and leave the problem undiagnosed.

What Is the Treatment for Adenovirus?

If the problem is mild, doctors will treat the symptoms. However, if the infection is severe, antiviral medicine may be prescribed. Visit a doctor to know how the problem can be contained.

How to Avoid Coming Down with Adenovirus?

Apart from staying away from people who are sick, wash your hands frequently. Also, clean surfaces properly.

Conclusion

The number of adenovirus cases in West Bengal has started to grow with children being widely affected. If this condition is left untreated, it can cause bronchitis or pneumonia. Hence, it is necessary to take your ward to a general physician doctor in Kolkata. So, get your symptoms checked soon.