Adenoviruses / conjunctivitis

From person to person
The viruses are usually spread via hands, to which the pathogens adhere. Infection can occur, for example, when people first touch their inflamed eyes and then shake hands with other people. If the eyes are then touched with this hand, the viruses can be passed on and lead to an infection.

Via contaminated objects
If an infected person first touches the eye colonised with adenoviruses and then objects or surfaces such as door handles, handrails or fittings, the pathogens can stick to them. Other people can then become infected by touching these objects or surfaces. Adenoviruses are also passed on via shared flannels or towels, as well as via shared eye drops, eye ointments or dropper pipettes. The same applies to objects that come into contact with the inflamed eye. At room temperature, the pathogens may adhere to surfaces for several weeks and remain contagious there.

At the beginning, there is redness in one or both eyes, followed by swelling of the conjunctiva. Affected people have a foreign body sensation in the eye. The eye is itchy, watery and sensitive to light. Often, swelling of the eyelids and enlargement of the lymph nodes in front of the ear also develop. The conjunctivitis usually subsides on its own after 2 to 4 weeks.

The disease usually breaks out 5 to 12 days after infection. The risk of transmission begins with the first signs of illness and usually lasts at least 2 weeks.

• There are causal treatments against the virus. Only the symptoms can be alleviated.
• Avoid touching your eyes with your hands, otherwise the pathogens can be passed on via your hands.
• Immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water if you have touched inflamed eyes.
• Those who are ill should stay at home and observe strict hygiene in order not to spread the virus further.
• Use towels and other hygiene items such as flannels, creams, powders, etc. only for yourself.
• Work in or attendance at community facilities such as schools or kindergartens should not be resumed until the inflammation has subsided.
• Do not go to public bathing establishments and saunas for the duration of the illness.

• Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water.
• Avoid close contact with sick people if possible.