They added that the virus targets healthy Americans, which is unlike the usual patterns of other respiratory infections.
The virus, called Adenovirus serotype 14, has reportedly spread throughout the states of Oregon, Texas, Washington, and New York, and has infected more than 1000 people.
At least 10 people have been killed by the strain.
Dr. Tiffini Lucas noted that the virus "seems to be affecting individuals that had no other medical problems." A WJLA-TV article quoted her as she added, "Viruses spread easily and their ability to mutate can occur quickly and we worry about that."
A report from the Center of Disease Control and Prevention stated that the virus is an "emerging" adenovirus that can result in severe, and in some instances, fatal respiratory complications to people of all ages.
The report continued to say, however, that the infections are uncommon, and the conditions that result are usually not serious. It said that the rare occurrences of deaths from the strain are a sign for the public not to worry about the virus.
A USA Today article quoted a previous report that stated that despite the rare occurrences of fatalities, "the germ appears to be spreading, and investigators are unsure how much of a threat it poses."
Despite the fact that there is still no medication against the virus, Dr. Lucas explained that there is currently no need to raise the alarm for patients.
Doctors said that patients would be best to wash their hands, cover their mouths when they cough, and staying at home when they feel ill. They add, however, that upon the emergence of more serious symptoms, such as shortness of breath, patients should seek medical help.
