Which virus is a common cause of viral conjunctivitis in adults?

• A. Adenovirus
• B. Enterovirus
• C. Rhinovirus
• D. Influenza

Answer: (A)

Viral conjunctivitis in adults is most commonly caused by adenovirus. This virus spreads easily through eye-hand contact and respiratory droplets, leading to a highly contagious conjunctival infection. Clinically, it often presents with red eye, watery discharge, a gritty or foreign-body sensation, and frequently bilateral involvement. There may be preauricular lymphadenopathy and sometimes accompanying upper respiratory symptoms. The discharge is usually watery rather than purulent, which helps distinguish it from bacterial conjunctivitis, and the illness tends to run its course over about a week or two.

Adenovirus stands out because it accounts for the majority of viral conjunctivitis cases in adults and is notorious for outbreaks in settings like schools, workplaces, and healthcare facilities. Enterovirus, rhinovirus, and influenza can cause eye symptoms, but they are less commonly the primary cause of viral conjunctivitis in adults.