What is the difference between adenovirus, H3N2 and Covid-19?

Posted By Suborna Fermi Posted on Apr 16, 2023

In the present time, India is facing more and more cases of viral infections. A number of viruses are affecting childs and adults. The majority of people find it challenging to distinguish between the illnesses because of how similar their symptoms are.

According to several studies, it has been discovered that adenovirus, H3N2 influenza virus and Covid-19 collectively, can be responsible for millions of hospitalizations. Confusion is being caused among the general public by these viral diseases. So, here we will be explaining all the information regarding these three viral infections.

What is adenovirus?

Adenovirus is a virus that affects our lungs, airways, eyes, nervous system and urinary tract. This viral infection mostly affects children more than adults, and can cause mild to severe symptoms. People with adenovirus infection may experience symptoms, such as:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Pink or red eyes (also known as conjunctivitis)
• Irritation in the eyes
• Unusual tearing
• Inflammation in intestine (Diarrhea)
• Inflammation in the lungs (chest cold)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach ache

If you experience any of these symptoms for quite a long time, then you should consult with your doctor.

What is H3N2 influenza?

H3N2 is a subtype of the influenza A virus, which is presently spreading rapidly in our country. The H3N2 virus mainly causes respiratory infection. This virus can be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets in the air, or direct contact with a contaminated object. The severity of this viral infection is much similar to any other seasonal flu. However, it can be fatal to pregnant women if not treated right away.

The symptoms of this virus are nearly identical to those of other seasonal infections since it affects the respiratory system. People may experience:

• Fever
• Chills
• Body ache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Diarrhea

The symptoms may seem similar and mild, but can cause severe health complications to some people. People with severe cases may experience difficulty in swallowing, and breathing issues. Therefore, if you experience these symptoms then do not take them lightly and call your doctor.

What is Covid-19 infection?

Nearly we all are well aware about covid-19, as this has taken millions of lives around the whole world. SARs-CoV-2 virus is responsible for the covid-19 infection, which can cause mild to severe health complications. This virus also spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets and by touching contaminated surfaces. People with covid-19 infection may experience:

• Fever
• Chills
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Congestion
• Muscle pain
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of smell and taste

Also, remember that the severity of this virus varies from person to person. Similarly, not everyone will experience the above mentioned symptoms, because the new strains of virus do not show any symptoms at all.

How do these infractions spread?

• Spreading from person-to-person: All these viruses can directly spread through close contact with an infected person. In specific words, you can get infected with the virus through hugging, and shaking hands.
• Through air: These viruses can also spread by the air. When an infected person sneezes or coughs, the respiratory droplets that are released into the air can spread to other persons.
• By touching contaminated objects and surfaces: You may also get these viruses if you touch your eyes, mouth or nose after touching a contaminated object or surface.

What is the cause of these infections?

All the three viruses behind the infections are very transmittable. These viruses spread somewhat in a similar manner. However, the causes behind these infections are different, which will help you to differentiate between these three viruses.

• The adenovirus infection is caused by the adenovirus.
• A subtype of influenza A virus is responsible for H3N2 infection.
• The covid-19 infection is the consequence of SARS-CoV-2 virus.

How are these viral infections diagnosed?

Doctors use multiple diagnostic tests to confirm a diagnosis. Here is the diagnostic procedure of these infections explained below.

Adenovirus infection:

If your child is having symptoms of adenovirus, the doctors may order several diagnostic tests. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Blood tests: Blood test is the most common diagnostic procedure which will help to detect if your child has this infection or not. To perform this test, a medical professional will take a small sample of your child’s blood.
• Urine blood: Your doctor might recommend a urine test as well. In which, a sample of your child’s urine will be collected in a container, then will be sent to the laboratory for testing.
• Swab test: A swab test is also helpful in the diagnosis of adenovirus infection. In this procedure, a cotton swab will be inserted in the nose to collect a sample of mucus.
• Chest X-ray: After the blood tests, doctors prefer having a chest X-ray which will help them to understand the severity of the infection.

H3N2 infection:

According to WHO, RT-PCR has higher sensitivity than rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs). Also the accuracy of rapid influenza diagnostic test results depends on the condition in which they are used. For this reason, doctors recommend a H3N2 Plus influenza profile test in order to diagnose H3N2 infection.

Covid-19 infection:

Covid 19 RT PCR Test is the main testing for diagnosing a covid-19 infection. Your doctor may carry out any of the following procedures to get the sample needed for this test.

• Collect the sample of mucus from your nose or throat with a swab
• Draw out fluid from the lower respiratory tract
• Collect stool or saliva samples

After the diagnosis of a covid-19 infection, your doctor may perform a chest CT scan in order to understand how much the infection has spread.

How can you prevent yourself from these infections?

Nowadays, several viral infections are plaguing people, thus it is crucial to safeguard yourself and your family against contracting these infections. Here are a few preventive measures for these infections.

• Have a healthy and well-balanced diet to boost your immune system.
• Make sure to stay well hydrated.
• Get vaccinated against each of these infections.
• Practice wearing a mask whenever you go out, especially in crowded places.
• Make sure to frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Practicing using a hand sanitizer with alcohol in it.
• If you have not washed your hands, refrain from touching your face.
• Stay away or maintain a safe distance from those who are ill.
• Make sure to disinfect objects you use regularly.
• Disinfect the door knobs and sinks more often.
• Do not share or use common utensils.

How can you prevent spreading these viruses?

If you are already infected with any of these infections, then take some simple steps to stop further spreading.

• Stay at home, or isolate yourself if your test results are positive.
• As coughing and sneezing are common symptoms of these infections, always cover your face and nose with a tissue or with your elbow.
• Without disinfecting, do not share your used utensils and other objects with anyone.
• Maintain proper distance and avoid close contact with people.
• Do not forget to wash and sanitize your hands frequently.

Currently, no treatments are available for adenovirus infection, doctors only recommend medicines to relieve the symptoms. Also, some adenovirus and H3N2 infections may get better with time. However, all three viral infections can be severe for some people, so it is always important to notice your symptoms to get immediate medical help.