*Children more prone to flu
Govind Sharma
JAMMU, July 27: In last two weeks, conjunctivitis or eye flu cases have suddenly risen in Jammu and there is heavy rush of such patients in Eye OPDs of the public hospitals across Jammu province.
Conjunctivitis cases are commonly reported during the monsoon season, and symptoms include redness, itching, watering, and sometimes discharge from the eyes. This is common in monsoon season but this year, there is a sudden spike in such cases.
“Few days back, only one or two such patients were being reported on daily basis in Eye OPD of Government Medical College and Hospital, Jammu but in last one week we have a sudden spike in such patients. Now, 30 percent of the patients in Eye OPD are suffering with eye flu,” said Prof (Dr) Ashok Sharma, Head, Department of Ophthalmology, Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu.
Dr Sharma said most of the patients suffering with eye flu are complaining of stickiness of the eyes, burning, irritation and redness while some are also complaining of fever. “Children are more prone to conjunctivitis during this season and precaution should be taken in order to protect their eyes especially during this season,” he added.
Consultant Ophthalmologist, Government Hospital Sarwal, Dr Sandeep Gupta said, “Since this Monday, cases of conjunctivitis have risen sharply in Eye OPD of the Hospital. Today, we had OPD of around 55 patients and out of these approximately 15 patients were of conjunctivitis.”
“Earlier, such a spike in eye flu cases in Jammu were reported in 7-8 years back and now this year,” Dr Gupta said, adding, the current outbreak of eye flu is primarily caused by the adenovirus, which is a common virus responsible for conjunctivitis. It is a self-limiting condition, and no specific antiviral medications are effective against it. The infection typically resolves within 7-14 days, he added.
However, to minimize the risk of contracting the infection, it is essential to avoid touching one’s eyes consciously and to refrain from touching potentially common surfaces. He also advised caution when using over-the-counter (OTC) medications containing high-dose steroids, which are generally sold in pharmacies.
“These drugs may interfere with the delicate development of the eyes, potentially leading to complications such as corneal opacity and loss of corneal transparency. Severe cases may even require surgical intervention,” Dr Gupta said.
Dr Kamal Gupta, Consultant, Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar also disclosed that around 20% patients visiting in Eye OPD of the Hospital are suffering with eye flu. He advised people to not rub eyes if they itch and wash eyes with clean water after every half an hour. He said people experiencing significant redness, irritation and excessive watering of the eyes must seek consultation with an ophthalmologist.
Dr Gupta further advised the public to follow general hygiene measures, including regular hand washing after coming from outside. He also suggests avoiding close contact with family members who have eye flu and wearing dark goggles if one has conjunctivitis. Moreover, children may need to stay home from school for a few days to prevent the spread to other students.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
