Experts underscore need for preventive measures
Irfan Tramboo
SRINAGAR, Aug 30: The total number of conjunctivitis cases in Jammu as well as Kashmir has now reached 26786 as Jammu reported a significant decline, with only 50 cases across all its districts today, while the Kashmir division faced a worrying surge, recording over 550 cases.
Health officials in Jammu have revealed that the cumulative count of cases has reached 14,482, including 12,831 cases in various districts and an additional 1,651 cases treated at the Government Medical College (GMC) in Jammu.
Emphasizing a potential shift in the situation, officials underscored that daily case counts are on a downward trajectory in Jammu division. Specifically, they noted, on August 28, 149 cases were documented, followed by 132 cases the subsequent day, and a mere 50 cases on August 30. “These figures indicate a changing trend in the incidence of conjunctivitis,” officials stated.
Analyzing the district-wise distribution of cases, statistics indicate that district Jammu reported 8 cases today, Doda 11, Kathua 17, Kishtwar 10, Rajouri 3, and Reasi 1. Notably, Poonch, Ramban, Samba, and Udhampur did not report any cases of conjunctivitis.
Meanwhile, as cases continue to rise in the Kashmir region, health officials here have confirmed that the tally has reached 12,304, with an increase of 553 cases today alone.
Breaking down the district-level data for conjunctivitis cases in Kashmir, district Anantnag reported 1,964 cases, Bandipora 1,069, Baramulla 1,757, Budgam 1,368, Ganderbal 522, Kulgam 648, Kupwara 744, Pulwama 1,765, Shopian 982, and Srinagar 1,485 cases. However, specific figures for August 30 were not provided for district-wise cases.
Meanwhile, experts are urging caution without causing panic, stressing the importance of taking necessary precautions to hinder the further spread of the viral infection.
Dr. Shabana Khan, Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, emphasized the contagious nature of the infection and its potential to transmit between individuals.
She highlighted the crucial role of hand hygiene and advised infected individuals to take preventive measures. Dr. Khan advised against using contact lenses and sharing towels, and recommended avoiding crowded places.
“The importance of hand hygiene in such a situation cannot be overstated. Neglecting it could result in the spread of the infection. Those infected, in particular, must ensure they take necessary preventive measures. If they are using contact lenses, they must avoid them until the infection eases. Sharing towels and using eye makeup should also be avoided,” she said, stressing the need to avoid crowded places.
Furthermore, Dr. Khan reassured the public that the infection is typically self-limiting and tends to resolve within a week. She strongly discouraged self-medication, urging individuals displaying symptoms to promptly consult a doctor to prevent complications.
As the situation evolves, health authorities stated that they are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing both vigilance and responsible action to curb its spread. “Necessary facilities are in place, and those reporting with symptoms are being treated well,” officials affirmed.
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