Adenovirus outbreaks in New Jersey: Two additional cases reported

Adenoviruses are common viruses that can cause a range of illnesses. They can cause cold-like symptoms, sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, and pink eye (conjunctivitis).

You can get an adenovirus infection at any age. People with weakened immune systems or existing respiratory or cardiac disease are more likely than others to get very sick from an adenovirus infection.

The New Jersey Department of Health is actively investigating two outbreaks at the Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Haskell and Voorhees Pediatric Facility that appear to be unrelated at this time.

Strain typing has confirmed the adenovirus cases at Voorhees are Type 3. This is a different strain from the one that caused a severe outbreak at the Wanaque Center (Type 7). Type 3 is typically associated with a milder illness than Type 7, however it is still sometimes associated with severe illness and even death.