A wave of illness that has disrupted the festive season for many across the UK is no longer a mystery, according to a leading health expert. The culprit behind the widespread coughing, sneezing, and stomach troubles has been identified.
The Culrit Behind the Festive Lurgy
Ian Budd, the lead prescribing pharmacist at Chemist4U, has clarified that the so-called 'mystery virus' or fast-spreading respiratory bug is, in fact, adenovirus. This is a common group of respiratory viruses that are currently circulating widely.
"What we're seeing in the news lines up with what clinicians and public health bodies are seeing: adenovirus," stated Budd. He emphasised that these viruses are not new, but their impact is more noticeable this season due to multiple bugs circulating simultaneously, prompting more people to seek medical advice.
Understanding Adenovirus Symptoms
Adenoviruses can infect people of all ages, though they tend to be more prevalent among children. The symptoms often mimic a common cold or flu but with some distinct differences.
"Compared to a cold, adenovirus can be more likely to cause fever and conjunctivitis, and symptoms can last longer," explained Ian Budd. However, he noted that unlike influenza, it does not typically cause the same level of extreme fatigue and body aches.
The primary symptoms associated with an adenovirus infection include:
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headaches and body aches
- Shortness of breath (less common)
Other possible signs can involve pink eye (conjunctivitis), ear infections – particularly in children – and gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea with certain strains.
Why Is It Spreading Now?
The pharmacist pointed to several factors driving the current outbreak. During winter, people naturally spend more time indoors in closer proximity, facilitating the spread of viruses.
Furthermore, Budd suggested that with COVID-19 restrictions lifted and fewer people exposed to common viruses in recent years, community immunity may be lower. This has potentially made the population more susceptible to infections like adenovirus.
"Adenovirus isn't a new virus; it's just showing up more often alongside other winter bugs," he concluded. The expert also highlighted that there is currently no readily available vaccine for adenovirus, making preventative hygiene measures crucial.
This identification, made public on 30 December 2025, provides clarity for the many Britons who have been affected by the persistent festive season illness.
