Conjunctivitis cases have become rampant in the last two weeks and is spreading like wild fire, warn opthalmologists.
Conjunctivitis cases which usually swell up during the summer, have become rampant in the last two weeks. It is spreading like wild fire, warn opthalmologists.
Opthalmologists say the number of cases are much higher than the normal. Some doctors quote a 15 percent increase in cases.
Chairman and Managing Director of Narayana Netralaya Dr Bhujung Shetty says there is an average of 15-20 cases a day at Narayana Netralaya.
“It is spreading like wild fire as it is extremely contagious--one can get it through direct and indirect contact” he said.
Its not just individuals but families acquiring conjunctivitis, says Consultant at Nayanalaya, Dr Sridhar Director of Shekar Netralaya Dr Rajashekhar says his hospital has been getting 20-25 patients a day with conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis cases usually shoot up during the summer, as the hot and humid climate favours the spread of the eye disease. Dr Rajashekhar reasons, “ Due to the festive season, there is lot of crowding and congestion in market places.
These are ideal conditions for the infection to spread.” It is the viral conjunctivitis which is rampant now for which there is no direct treatment. Only antibiotics to prevent secondary infections is given, hence hygiene is very important said Dr Sridhar.
SYMPTOMS
*Gritty feeling in eyes
*Redness of the eyes
*Pain in eyes
*Swelling of lids
*Watering
*In some cases discharge from the eyes
PREVENTION
*Don't make physical contact with people with conjunctivitis
*Do not share personal items with a person who has conjunctivitis.
*Those infected should not go to work or school/college as it is contagious
*Don't wear contact lens if you have conjunctivitis
