Conjunctivitis cases rise; doctor shares precaution tips

According to media reports cases of conjunctivitis and other eye infections are on the rise. Last week, around 2,000 new conjunctivitis cases were found in Alandi, near Pune, Maharashtra. Even Delhi has been witnessing a steady rise in the number of conjunctivitis cases.

What is conjunctivitis?

Commonly known as ‘pink eye’, it is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids. The condition is called “pink eye” because it often causes the affected eye to appear reddish or pink in colour.

According to Dr Noopur Sud, a Paediatrician whose son, Aakarsh, studies at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg conjunctivitis can be caused by various factors. “During monsoon, the weather becomes very sultry and high temperatures. This causes viruses and bacteria to grow. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and is often associated with common cold viruses. It spreads easily through contact with infected eye secretions or contaminated objects,” Dr Sud said.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is also contagious and is typically caused by bacteria and can spread through direct contact or by touching contaminated objects, Dr Sud explained and added that sometimes, allergens also cause redness in the eye. “However, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and is triggered by allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or certain medications,” She said.

Common symptoms to watch out for

1.       Redness in the eyes

2.       Watering

3.       Stickiness in the eyes in the morning with some discharge

“These symptoms can be part of the general viral infection where the child has fever and cold. Along with that, they can have conjunctivitis. But conjunctivitis can happen on its own as well. Since conjunctivitis is highly infectious, it begins in one eye and slowly spreads to the other. Unfortunately, it can spread to other people as well,” Dr Sud warned.

Prevention

We have all heard of the adage: Prevention is better than cure. And to prevent any infection, hygiene is the most important thing. “During this season, children must be told not to touch any surface and then their eyes and face. Usually, this is a common habit in smaller kids. Hence, regular hand washing must be encouraged. When the child comes back from playing out, he/she is all sweaty and is likely to attract bacteria and viruses. They must wash their face and hand with soap and water. Even when the kids come back from school, they must first wash their hands and face,” Dr Sud stressed.

She is also quick to point out that not only kids but adults must also follow hygiene. “Since conjunctivitis is highly infectious, if it enters the house, all possible precautions by the other family members must be taken,” She said.

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The minute the eye becomes red, the parent must take the child to an eye specialist. Never go to a chemist for medicine. Since conjunctivitis can be caused due to several factors, the doctor must be consulted

–Dr Nupur Sud, a Paediatrician whose son, Aakarsh, studies at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg

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When to consult the doctor?

The minute the eye becomes red, the parent must take the child to an eye specialist. “Never go to a chemist for medicine. Since conjunctivitis can be caused due to several factors, the doctor must be consulted. In some cases, a foreign object can be lodged in the eye causing redness. Do not buy medicines from a chemist shop without consulting a doctor,” Dr Sud said.

Precaution during treatment

“As I mentioned before, everyone in the house must wash their hands and follow proper hygiene. More often than not, children who have dry eyes get this eye infection. During this season, after consulting a doctor, parents can put an eye lubricant on. With proper and timely treatment, the infection subsides in seven to 10 days. Sometimes, antibiotics may need to be prescribed. But if it is bacterial conjunctivitis, the duration of infection is longer. Hence, it is important to consult the doctor as soon as possible,” Dr Sud said.

Should a child go to school during this period?

No, no, at least not in the initial stages. “As long as there is discharge and redness of eyes the child should remain indoors. This is because at this time the child has difficulty in vision as the eyes are red and itchy. Also, this is an infectious stage. If the child goes to school, he/she can spread it to others. The child should stay at home for at least three-four days, Dr Sud said in conclusion.