Adenovirus: Symptoms & Protection Guide

There are increasing media reports of a wave of illness in Great Britain. In addition to seasonal infections such as the flu, which occurs every year, the focus is increasingly on the adenovirus. What is behind the pathogen – and what is the situation in Germany?

What is Adenovirus?

Adenoviruses are a group of pathogens that can cause various diseases. They belong to the DNA viruses. In contrast to many other pathogens, adenoviruses do not have a fatty envelope. This makes them more robust against environmental influences such as cleaning products and they survive longer. Their shape with spine-like extensions is characteristic of all around seventy known pathogens. Adenoviruses occur worldwide. Unlike the classic flu, they are not considered seasonal; Infections occur all year round.

Is the adenovirus new?

No, adenovirus is not a new disease. Adenoviruses were discovered in the 1950s.

Why is the media suddenly talking about the adenovirus so much?

Britain is struggling with an ongoing wave of illness. According to current data from the British Health Authority, this is predominantly characterized by influenza and RSV infections. In mid-December, British media such as the BBC reported the highest number of flu patients ever in hospital at this time of year.

The adenovirus currently only accounts for a small proportion of the infection process there. Nevertheless, many people in Great Britain are worried because the virus is considered highly contagious and could put additional strain on the already strained health system.

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How is the adenovirus transmitted?

Adenoviruses spread through smear and droplet infections. Infection often occurs through shaking hands or shared objects. The viruses can also adhere to surfaces such as tables or doorknobs and remain infectious there for a certain period of time. Adenoviruses can also often withstand conventional cleaning and disinfecting products. Therefore, according to the Federal Center for Health Education, they are considered highly contagious and resistant.

What symptoms does the adenovirus cause?

In healthy adults, the disease can also have no symptoms. Typical symptoms of adenovirus disease are:

• Conjunctivitis: unilateral or bilateral; Redness, swelling and foreign body sensation in the eye
• Flu-like symptoms: Cough, runny nose, sore throat, fever
• Gastrointestinal complaints: Cramps, diarrhea, vomiting
• In rare cases: Infections in the liver, brain or urinary tract

How is adenovirus infection treated?

There are no medications or vaccinations specifically against adenoviruses. In healthy adults, the symptoms are usually treated in order to make the course of the disease more bearable. Depending on the symptoms, fever and pain-reducing medications or eye drops can help. However, people with previous illnesses should consult their doctor, as the recommendations may differ.

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How long does an infection with adenovirus last?

An infection with the adenovirus often lasts longer than a classic cold. The AOK puts the duration of a cold or flu at seven to ten days. An infection with the adenovirus is said to last up to two weeks. According to the AOK, symptoms of conjunctivitis can last up to four weeks.

How long are people infected with the adenovirus contagious?

According to the Federal Center for Health Education, the incubation period – the period between infection and the onset of the first symptoms – is usually five to twelve days. Patients are contagious when the first signs of illness begin and usually for at least two weeks.

Does an infection with the adenovirus have to be reported?

According to the Robert Koch Institute, individuals are only required to report an infection if adenoviruses are detected through a swab from the eye.

How can I protect myself and others from the adenovirus?

Five tips to help protect against adenoviruses:

• Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly.

• Pay attention to hygiene, especially in shared facilities such as at work.

• Avoid contact if you or someone else is sick.

• Regularly clean shared surfaces such as tables or doorknobs with antiviral disinfectant.

• Wash towels at at least 60 degrees.

Is the adenovirus dangerous?

For healthy adults, adenovirus is no more dangerous than other respiratory or conjunctival infections. However, certain risk groups should be particularly careful: people with a weakened immune system, existing heart or lung diseases, children and the elderly. They have an increased risk of a severe course.

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How many people are currently infected with the adenovirus in Germany?

Since there is no general reporting requirement for an adenovirus infection, the exact infection process can only be approximately described. The Robert Koch Institute evaluates the number of samples submitted every week in its ARE report. The currently last weekly report comes from the week of December 8th to 14th, 2025 (week 50). This week, only four percent of positive samples were for adenovirus. For comparison: The flu viruses Influenza A and Influenza B together accounted for 34 percent of the positive test results.