KUWAIT: Adenovirus infection is not a frightening disease and people in Kuwait should not be alarmed at the spread of the contagious virus , an ENT specialist said. Dr Jaffer Al-Shaikh told Kuwait Times that the virus is not typical of Kuwait's summer; it could even strike during spring, autumn and winter. News about the spread of the virus were circulated recently creating havoc between people that a new disease is taking off. The adenovirus infection usually infects the respiratory tract similar to common cold or even pneumonia, croup and bronchitis. "It's a common virus and it's not only preventable, it's treatable," he said.

Though he conceded to the possibility of its quick spread in Kuwait during late summer as many Kuwaitis and expatriates are vacationing abroad. "Many expatriates and even Kuwaitis are taking summer vacations at the moment. This is so that we do not know how prevalent adenovirus is in respective areas. So, when they are back from vacation; they carry the virus with them and spread it in Kuwait," he said. "Any viral infection requires no therapy but we treat the infection brought by the virus to our body,
the he added.

He noted that adenovirus can be found in about 52 types and one virus could mutate several times. "We have no study of what is the strain of adenovirus in Kuwait. On the other hand, the virus could mutate easily," he said. The virus could spread through direct contact with people who have contracted the virus through coughs and sneezes (droplets). The swimming pool or any stagnant water shared by multitudes could also easily spread the virus. "The virus can survive in extreme hot or cold weather. As I said, it's not exclusive to any season. Once people are contracted to it, virus could really spread, unless it is treated," he said.

Maintaining proper hygiene, a balanced diet can fight and prevent any disease, "I recommend that chicken soup be to included in your daily diet. It is wonderful food for our body. Also, don't forget fruits and vegetables too," he added. Adenovirus could infect the tissue linings of the respiratory tract: Eyes, the intestines, and the urinary tract. Once a person is exposed to adenovirus, symptoms usually develop between two days to two weeks later. It is a treatable disease. The type of treatment will depend on the condition that the adenovirus causes. -Kuwait Times