*Approximately 15,000 cases of conjunctivitis reported in Jammu and Kashmir*
*No cause for alarm, doctors advise precautions*
Srinagar, August 11 (TTK): Medical facilities in Jammu and Kashmir have noted an increase in patients experiencing eye irritation, redness, swelling, and itching.
Doctors from both Kashmir and Jammu regions informed the news agency, Kashmir News Observer (KNO), that cases of conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as eye flu, are on the rise. They reassured the public that there is no need to panic, as the condition typically resolves within one to two weeks for those affected.
People are encouraged to take preventive measures, they added.
Dr. Rajeev Kumar Sharma, Director of Health Services Jammu, stated that hospitals under the Directorate reported 9,127 cases of conjunctivitis.
Dr. Mir Mushtaq, spokesperson for the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, mentioned that the Kashmir division hospitals under DHSK's jurisdiction have recorded 5,320 cases of 'Eye Flu'. Notable figures include 781 cases in Anantnag, 15 in Bandipora, 999 in Baramulla, 351 in Budgam, 287 in Ganderbal, 164 in Kulgam, 412 in Kupwara, 924 in Pulwama, 601 in Shopian, and 786 in Srinagar.
Officials clarified that these numbers do not encompass cases from Government Medical Colleges in both divisions. Across various hospitals, daily outpatient departments have been observing around 20 to 30 cases of 'Eye Flu'.
DHSK recently released an advisory to mitigate the condition's spread. The advisory emphasizes maintaining optimal hygiene, frequent hand washing, and the use of hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol. It also suggests avoiding touching the eyes, refraining from sharing personal items, practicing respiratory etiquette, and proper disposal of tissues.
The advisory stresses on preventing eye rubbing and staying home if infected, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals. It advocates adherence to contact lens guidelines, regular replacements, and cleanliness in shared environments. Swimming pools should be avoided to prevent further transmission.
Doctors characterized the infection as self-limiting, with individual immunity playing a role in the disease's course. The humid and damp conditions during the monsoon create an ideal environment for the rapid spread of the responsible viruses or bacteria. The flu can affect any age group, and touching unwashed hands to the eyes should be avoided.
Symptoms include watery discharge, redness, congestion, photophobia, and hemorrhages in the eye's superficial layer. Most cases of eye flu can be treated with over-the-counter eye drops and antibiotics. However, untreated severe bacterial conjunctivitis can lead to vision complications.
