The adenovirus has spread rapidly in Bogota since last week, with the number of registered cases climbing to 200 and four people placed in intensive care, Caracol Radio reported Tuesday.
The virus, which is responsible for respiratory infections including colds, bronchitis, and pneumonia, was first established in the capital two weeks ago. Last week there were eight reported cases.
The virus has now been responsible for the death of one young child. Bogota Health Secretary Hector Zambrano reiterated the medical alert issued for Bogota, stating that the number of actual cases is likely to be much higher than the 200 reported.
Zambrano emphasized the importance of wearing face masks as a precautionary measure once symptoms are detected. The Health Secretary advises hospitals to undertake isolation and biosecurity measures.
The most commonly identified symptoms of the virus include headaches, respiratory infection, a sore throat, and a generally poor state of health for more than three days. Other symptoms may include conjunctivitis, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe abdominal pain.