Student Dies, 5 Other Cases Confirmed of Adenovirus

A University of Maryland student died last week after contracting an adenovirus-associated illness, amid calls from the University Health Center asking students, faculty and staff to take health-preserving precautions.

The university did not release details about the student, per federal health privacy laws, but Dr. David McBride, the health center’s director, said in a campus email on Tuesday that the student’s family had given him permission to announce that information. “We offer our condolences during this difficult time,” he wrote.

That student, who died Nov. 18, was one of six with confirmed cases of an adenovirus-associated illness since Nov. 1. This typical cold virus has many strains, some of which can cause a more severe or potentially life-threatening illness with a high fever and respiratory symptoms.

McBride wrote that the health center has been closely monitoring for cases in coordination with the Maryland Department of Health and Prince George's County Health Department by testing students at the Health Center and advising testing to facilities where ill students have been admitted.
 
“The Health Center staff has been on high alert and we have reached out to medical facilities in the area to heighten awareness of this illness,” he wrote.
 
For otherwise healthy people, rest, plenty of fluids and fever-reducing medicine will treat the illness. However, it is important that those with chronic medical problems like asthma, diabetes or illnesses that weaken the immune system, or if who take medicine that weakens the immune system visit the University Health Center or their personal physician within 48 hours of developing symptoms.

For a list of frequently asked questions, a timeline and other resources on this issue, visit here.