According to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, the past two weeks have shown sudden rise of conjunctivitis cases almost triple the average case rate.
Humidity during monsoon season turns a breeding ground for many bacteria’s and viruses. The extended monsoon in Mumbai had led the humidity to increase in air aggravating the viral spread. Conjunctivitis is another viral surge along with dengue and malaria, especially in Mumbai.
BMC updated on last Saturday that around 250-300 conjunctivitis patients are treated in Murli Deora Eye Hospital. BMC also advices people to take precautions, avoid home remedies and visit eye specialists for treatment. One can avail conjunctivitis medicines freely at its hospital.
What are the precautions one must take?
- One must not frequently touch or rub eyes
- Wash one’s eyes frequently with water
- Avoid social groups or crowd as it is infectious
- Visit eye specialist for treatment
Bacteria that lead to conjunctivitis are staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus Influenza, Streptococcus pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Virus that causes is generally adenovirus. Allergens and pollens also contribute in cause. However Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis is most prevalent in monsoon and winter and is highly contagious while allergic on the other hand isn’t transmissible.
Conjunctivitis makes eyelids droop and puff. The white area of eye and inner eyelid turns pink hence the name Pink-eye. There’s a yellow thick discharge from eyes which surface over eyelash making it sticky and difficult to open eyes wide. Water runs from eyes. Itching and inflammation also adds to discomfort. Some may suffer undifferentiated fever.
Dr. Chinmay Sanghvi, Consultant Ophthalmologist, Wockhardt Hospital in Mumbai stated not to opt for any steroid eye drops available in the market or over-the-counter medicines without consulting an ophthalmologist as it can worsen the situation.