Viral infection symptoms in adults
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Viral Infection Symptoms in Adults
Understanding the symptoms of viral infections in adults is crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and containment. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to provide a comprehensive overview of common symptoms associated with various viral infections in adults.
Common Symptoms of COVID-19 in Adults
Fever and Cough
Fever and cough are the most prevalent symptoms in adults infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. A systematic review involving 24,410 adults from nine countries found that 78% of patients experienced fever, while 57% had a cough. These symptoms are critical for identifying potential COVID-19 cases, although they are not exclusive to this virus.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another common symptom, affecting 31% of COVID-19 patients. This symptom, while less specific, is significant in the overall clinical presentation of the disease.
Symptoms of Other Respiratory Viral Infections
Fever Variability
Fever is a less consistent symptom across different respiratory viruses. For instance, only 23.4% of adults with confirmed viral respiratory infections, including influenza, exhibited fever. The rates varied significantly among different viruses, such as human rhinovirus (25.3%), influenza A virus (30%), and respiratory syncytial virus (14.3%). This variability suggests that fever alone is not a reliable indicator for all viral infections.
Cough and Lower Respiratory Tract Symptoms
Cough and other lower respiratory tract symptoms are common across various viral infections. A study on lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) found that patients with viruses like influenza, human metapneumovirus (hMPV), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) had higher symptom severity scores compared to those with no virus detected. These symptoms often include acute cough and can lead to prolonged illness.
Specific Viral Infections and Their Symptoms
Viral Meningitis
Viral meningitis presents with distinct symptoms depending on the causative virus. Enterovirus is the most common cause, but herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) also contribute significantly. Patients with HSV type 2 infections tend to have higher white blood cell counts and protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid compared to those with enterovirus infections. Additionally, VZV infections often lead to a rash following meningitis symptoms.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
EBV infection can lead to chronic illness and fatigue in adults. Patients often exhibit elevated antibody titers specific to the virus and may have mild immunoglobulin deficiencies. Persistent suppressor T-cell activity is also common, indicating ongoing immune response.
Predictors and Risk Factors for Viral Symptoms
Modifiable Risk Factors
Certain behaviors and exposures can influence the risk of developing viral symptoms. Smoking, recent viral symptoms in household members, and close interactions with multiple individuals increase the likelihood of symptom onset. Conversely, regular exercise, higher social status, and sanitizing personal items like phones can reduce this risk.
Genetic Diversity and Viral Load
For human metapneumovirus (HMPV), genetic diversity and viral load do not significantly impact symptom severity. However, differences in viral load dynamics between genotypes may affect transmission rates.
Conclusion
Viral infections in adults present with a range of symptoms, with fever and cough being the most common for COVID-19. However, the presence and severity of symptoms can vary widely among different viruses. Understanding these variations and the associated risk factors can aid in better clinical assessment and management of viral infections.
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