What is adenovirus pneumonia?

  Adenovirus pneumonia is a viral pneumonia caused by adenovirus, mostly seen in infants and children aged 6 months to 2 years, and is more common in northern provinces and cities, and is also more serious, and is one of the more common diseases in children in China.  Adenovirus is generally transmitted through respiratory droplets, and there are 41 known serogroups of adenovirus, many of which are closely related to human upper respiratory tract infections and lower respiratory tract infections. Most of the adenovirus pneumonia prevalent in China is caused by adenovirus types 3 and 7. Adenovirus upper respiratory tract infections and pneumonia often occur together in general group children’s institutions, and pediatric adenovirus pneumonia is associated with severe symptoms, including significant wheezing and, in severe cases, respiratory failure and heart failure.  Adenovirus pneumonia usually has a rapid onset of fever, often with a high fever of more than 39°C for 1 to 2 days, with the highest temperature exceeding 40°C in most patients. Most children have a cough with pharyngeal congestion, and in more severe cases, dyspnea, wheezing and lip bruising, as well as neurological symptoms such as lethargy and depression, etc. In a few severe cases, semi-coma and convulsions may occur in the middle and late stages. Some can be complicated by infections such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and pneumococcus, making the condition more serious.  Adenovirus pneumonia should be diagnosed according to the epidemic situation, combined with clinical diagnosis. During the epidemic period, we should try to isolate and prevent cross-infection to reduce the chance of transmission.