Reoviruses typically cause a mild physical illness in humans. While infections are often benign, they can occasionally lead to more severe conditions.
Common Symptoms of Reovirus Infection
In many cases, reovirus infections present with a set of symptoms that, while characteristic, are not exclusive to reovirus and can be indicative of various other viral infections. These include:
- High fever: A notable elevation in body temperature.
- Severe myalgia: Intense and widespread muscle pain.
- Headache: Persistent pain or ache in the head.
These symptoms often form a typical triad, signifying a general viral syndrome.
Rare Complications and Associated Findings
Although reovirus infections are usually mild, complications can occur in rare instances. When these serious complications develop, specific physical findings may be observed that correlate with the affected bodily systems. These rare but significant complications include:
- Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus.
- Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, which can lead to neurological symptoms.
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord, often causing symptoms like stiff neck, fever, and headache.
The presence of these complications indicates a more severe progression of the reovirus infection.
Symptom Summary Table
| Category | Symptoms/Conditions | Severity | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Symptoms | High fever, severe myalgia (muscle pain), headache | Mild | Common |
| Rare Complications | Pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), meningitis | Severe | Rare |
