Adenovirus-caused acute respiratory infection (ARI) killed 19 children under the age of five in state-run institutions.
What exactly is Adenovirus Infection?
- Adenoviruses are common viruses that cause mild cold or flu-like symptoms and are typically spread from one infected person to another through close personal contact.
- The virus is spread through the air by coughing and sneezing, as well as by touching an adenovirus-infected object or surface.
- While the virus can affect people of all ages, children with low or compromised immunity are more vulnerable.
- Other than common cold or flu-like symptoms, viral infections can cause acute bronchitis, pneumonia, pink eye (conjunctivitis), and acute gastroenteritis.
Causes of the Bengal outbreak
- Doctors believe that the recombinant strain is to blame for the increase in infections and deaths.
- The majority of the children infected with the virus are under the age of three and were born during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Children aged six months to preschool are the most vulnerable to viral infection.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/explained-how-is-bengal-tackling-fatal-viral-infection/article66608395.ece