Diagnosis

Adenovirus infections can be identified using antigen detection, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), virus isolation, and serology. Adenovirus typing is usually done by molecular methods.

Even if a person has adenovirus infection, it does not necessarily mean it is causing the person’s particular illness. Some people, especially those who have weakened immune systems, can shed the virus for weeks or longer and not have symptoms.

Health professionals should

• consider adenoviruses as possible causes of upper respiratory infection, lower respiratory infection such as pneumonia, and conjunctivitis (individual cases or outbreaks)
• report unusual clusters (e.g., respiratory, conjunctivitis) caused by adenoviruses to the state or local health department

For more information, see

• Clinical Overview
• Prevention & Treatment