Eye flu flares up with rain & humidity

The pre-monsoon showers and high humidity levels have brought with them the season's first infectious ailment — viral conjunctivitis . The outdoor patient departments (OPDs) of city hospitals are seeing a surge in conjunctivitis cases, apart from a rise in the number of patients with fever and respiratory problems. "I have been seeing two to three cases of viral conjunctivitis every day. The patients include a range of age groups, from children to adults. Normally , viral form of conjuctivitis is seen in August when the rains start, but due to high levels of humidity and intermittent rains this year, the cases are being reported early," said Dr Tarun Kapoor, senior consultant , ophthalmology, at Rockland Hospital. He said that one should avoid sharing toiletries and visiting crowded places. "Those travelling by public transport need to be extra careful and schoolchildren should ensure that they do not come in direct contact with infected persons," Kapoor said.

Those allergic to pollen grains, heat and dust — another common cause of conjunctivitis — should wear sunglasses to avoid exposure to the allergic agents, say doctors . "Children with conjunctivitis should not attend school until after 24 hours of starting treatment," said a doctor.
Amit Khanna, a 34-yearold marketing who contracted the disease two days ago, said he felt inflammation in his eyes besides secretion of fluid. "My eyes are hurting badly. I have been asked by the doctor to use anti-viral eye drops," said Khanna. He said his son has also got infected with the disease.
Dr Amit Khosla, senior consultant, ophthalmology, at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital added , "The cases of viral conjunctivitis will increase during the monsoon. Low temperature and wet surfaces are most suitable conditions for the bacteria and viruses that cause the infectious disease . Eyes should not be rubbed with unclean hands and special care needs to be taken by those using swimming pools."
Dr L R Seth, opthalmologist at Apollo Hospital said that self-medication and buying eye drops from pharmacy stores without consulting eye specialists should be avoided.
The symptoms of the disease are blurred vision, crusts that form on the eyelid overnight , eye pain, grit in the eyes, increased tearing, itching and redness in the eyes.