Resurgence of Human Adenovirus Infections in the Korean Military Following the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND

The study investigates the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the resurgence of human adenovirus (HAdV) infections among Korean military personnel following the easing of the coronavirus disease 2019 restrictions, with a focus on serotype distribution and healthcare utilization.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective descriptive study of 450 laboratory-confirmed HAdV cases identified between January 2023 and July 2024. We retrieved data from the New Defense Medical Information System and performed serotyping on a subset of samples using real-time polymerase chain reaction and sequencing.

RESULTS

HAdV cases increased sharply beginning in late 2023 and peaked in July 2024. Serotyping revealed a significant shift: HAdV-14 accounted for 98.8% of typed cases, replacing the historically dominant HAdV-55. Most patients presented with respiratory symptoms, although gastrointestinal symptoms were also common. Co-infections occurred in 7.3% of cases. 26.2% of patients required hospitalization, with a mean stay of 7.4 days. One patient required intensive care.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the resurgence and serotype shift of HAdV infections in a military population, reflecting post-pandemic viral dynamics. The findings underscore the need for continuous molecular surveillance and strengthened preparedness strategies in congregate military settings.