PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The current monsoon season has led to a sudden spike in conjunctivitis cases among the people of Dehradun. Explaining this, the eye specialists said that this happens because the likelihood of viral infections increases during this time. The survival rate of viruses on the surfaces is higher during monsoon and this results in eye infections, particularly conjunctivitis.
Senior eye specialist at Gandhi Shatabdi Eye Hospital (Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital) Dr Shashi Vasan said that while conjunctivitis cases were being reported at the hospital’s outpatient department, the numbers have not surged up compared to the previous two years. “Currently, the hospital receives about eight to ten conjunctivitis cases each day,” she said.
She also echoed the view that monsoon rains bring increased viral infection risks, given the higher survival rate of viruses on the surfaces during the rainy season.
Asked about the conjunctivitis symptoms, she said that the three most common symptoms are watery eyes, redness and a foreign sensation in the eye. “The severity of conjunctivitis may vary from person to person, much like dengue and other viral fevers, depending on an individual’s immune system. To prevent such infections, it is important to maintain good hygiene, wash eyes as needed and use a napkin or towel instead of handkerchief to clean eyes,” she said.
Speaking on the same issue, another senior eye specialist, Dr Amit Singh said that there has been a 20 per cent surge in cases of conjunctivitis among the Doonites this monsoon. “The combination of heat and humidity is the most common factor besides the higher survival rate of viruses during the rainy season,” he said.
Asked which sections of the population are suffering eye infections around this time the most, he said that wage workers and schoolchildren are currently the most frequent visitors to outpatient departments with conjunctivitis. “Common symptoms include red eyes, a gritty sensation and itching. To prevent the spread of conjunctivitis, people should avoid crowded places and those already infected should maintain a distance to prevent transmission. Additionally, washing hands and proper hygiene practices can help avoid contracting conjunctivitis,” he said.
Also, he advised people to seek medical consultation upon noticing such symptoms instead of resorting to self-medication. “This could lead to further complications which are absolutely avoidable,” he added.
