The University of Miami is aware of students with confirmed Adenovirus-associated illness. We are monitoring the situation and are working closely with the Miami-Dade County Department of Health to address this matter. Appropriate preventive measures are being taken. Students experiencing severe flu-like symptoms should seek care at the Student Health Service in the Lennar Foundation Medical Center on campus. For after-hours assistance, students can either contact the Student Health Service on-call provider at 305-284-9100 or for severe symptoms seek care at the nearest emergency room.
For assistance, please contact any of the following University of Miami Departments listed below:
This statement will continue to be updated as we receive more information.
Adenovirus
Common viruses that can cause a range of illnesses. In particular, they can cause cold-like symptoms, sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, and pink eye. Individuals with a suppressed immune system or existing respiratory or cardiac disease are more susceptible to developing severe illness from adenovirus infection.
Signs & Symptoms
Individuals who have the flu often experience some or all of the symptoms below:
- Common cold
- Sore throat
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Diarrhea
- Pink eye
- Fever
- Bladder inflammation or infection
- Inflammation of stomach and intestines
- Neurologic disease
Transmission
Adenoviruses are typically transmitted from an infected person to others through:
- Close contact with an infected person (such as touching or shaking hands)
- The air by coughing and sneezing
- Touching an object or surface with adenoviruses on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes
Prevention
Adenovirus vaccine is currently used by the U.S. military only. There is no vaccine available for the general public.
Follow these simple steps to protect yourself and those around you:
- Wash your hands with soap and water
- Disinfect high contact surfaces with EPA approved products (such as chlorine)
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Do not share cups and eating utensils with others
- Refrain from kissing those who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick
- Avoid large gatherings or activities
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with your upper sleeve or tissue
Treatment
Most cases of adenovirus are mild and require only treatment to relieve symptoms. There is no medication to treat non-hospitalized patients. Treatment for individuals who are otherwise healthy, includes rest, plenty of fluids, and fever-reducing medicine. It is important that individuals with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma or diabetes) and/or a suppressed immune system that are experiencing flu-like symptoms visit their healthcare provider to seek medical attention.
To make an appointment at the Student Health Service, go to mystudenthealth.miami.edu
Resources
For additional information, please visit the CDC website.
