**JP** PINK EYE (Viral Conjunctivitis) ASHOOB-E-CHASHAM

 

 

 

 

 

PINK EYE

(Viral Conjunctivitis)

 

 

 

 

 

Now a days, viral eye infection (pink eyes) is on a rise in the city and many of us are also being affected by this. It is a very common and highly contagious eye infection that usually occurs during these months every year (August - October).

 

It is advised that anyone who suffers from this infection; has eye redness and irritation, should consult us / local doctor for the treatment and should also avoid attending office, in order to prevent its spread to others.

 

PINK EYE

(Viral Conjunctivitis)

Pink eye or conjunctivitis refers to a redness or irritation of the membranes on the inner part of the eyelids and the membranes (conjunctiva) covering the whites of the eyes. These membranes react to a wide range of bacteria, viruses, allergy-provoking agents, irritants, and toxic agents, as well as to underlying diseases within the body. The leading cause of a red eye is virus infection.

SYMPTOMS

•      Sudden onset of redness.

•      Sensitivity to light, swelling of eyelids.

•      Excessive flow of tears in one or both eyes.

•      Many times, the symptoms begin in one eye with subsequent involvement of the other eye. Often, there is a history of close contact with someone having similar symptoms or a history of a recent flu.

 

SPREAD OF INFECTION

•      It is a very common eye infection that spreads from one person to another.

•      You cannot get conjunctivitis simply by looking at any patient. You have to be exposed to the secretions from his / her eye or nose.

•      The virus is transferred through these secretions to surfaces like desks and door handles.

•      The virus can live on these surfaces for many days. Individuals who touch these contaminated surfaces and then touch their eyes are likely to become infected.

•      One is likely to remain contagious for 5 – 7 days.

 

PREVENTION & TREATMENT

•      If you have "pink eye", please consult your doctor.

•      Avoid touching your eyes and touching other surfaces like chairs, desks, keyboards, doorknobs etc.

•      If you wipe your eyes with a tissue, dispose it off immediately. Do not leave it on other surfaces.

•      Practice frequent hand washing.

•      Do not share towels and pillows with others.

•      It is not a bacterial infection and does not require antibiotics.

•      The problem is viral and gets better on its own usually within 3 - 5 days.

•      If you have conjunctivitis, wearing sunglasses helps decrease sensitivity to light, so you will be more comfortable outside. However, sunglasses will not decrease the risk of spread to others.

 

    The best way to avoid getting this infection and passing it on to others is to practice frequent hand washing.

 

Best Regards.