Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Adenovirus making the rounds

Hey guys, I thought you might be interested in this fairly well publicized story about adenovirus. Apparently it's a more virulent strain (Adenovirus 14) than seen before. Normally the virus causes cold-like symptoms, ie: congestion, runny nose, sneezing, those sorts of upper respiratory things. However the recent strain has been causing shortness of breath, coughing, and a high fever. "Dozens" are being sent to the ICU, and at least 10 have died from the disease. Scary stuff, especially since it's right near by in Oregon. They suggest that the virus is genetically different enough from a 1955 strain to cause new, worse symptoms. Cases are being reported among young, healthy people, but the virus is also attacking, not surprisingly, military personnel. Maybe they will rethink they're decision to discontinue the adenovirus vaccination.

Jon

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22192270/page/3/

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