A viral outbreak of conjunctivitis, a contagious eye infection, has affected more than 2,370 people, including school children, in Alandi, a temple town located 25 km away from Pune. In response to the situation, the district health authorities have taken immediate containment measures.
The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) issued an alert after the rural hospital in Alandi reported an unusually high number of patients with the infection. As part of the ring approach to control and prevent the spread of the infection, door-to-door screening was promptly initiated, according to Ayush Prasad, CEO of Pune Zilla Parishad.
Dr. Nagnath Yempalle, district civil surgeon, stated that on the first day, 450 children and some adults sought treatment at the rural hospital. Subsequent screenings led to the detection of 740 new cases on Tuesday, 210 on Wednesday, 160 on Thursday, and 813 on Friday, bringing the total number of affected individuals to 2,373. Prasad attributed the increase in cases to intensified surveillance and the prompt identification of infected individuals.
What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the clear membrane that lines the inside of your eyelids and covers the white part of your eye. It is a very common condition that can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or an allergic reaction.
There are three main types of conjunctivitis:
- Viral conjunctivitis is the most common type. It is usually caused by a cold or other viral infection. Viral conjunctivitis is typically mild and goes away on its own within a week or two.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis is less common than viral conjunctivitis. It is caused by bacteria that can be spread through contact with an infected person or object. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be more severe than viral conjunctivitis and may require treatment with antibiotic eye drops or ointment.
- Allergic conjunctivitis is caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Allergic conjunctivitis is usually mild and goes away on its own, but it can be more severe in some people.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
The symptoms of conjunctivitis vary depending on the type of conjunctivitis you have. However, some common symptoms include:
- Red, swollen, and irritated eyes
- Watery eyes
- Thick, crusty discharge from the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Itching
- Burning
If you think you have conjunctivitis, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment. There is no cure for conjunctivitis, but there are treatments that can help to relieve the symptoms and make the condition go away faster.
How to Stay safe from conjunctivitis?
To stay safe from conjunctivitis, you can follow these tips:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your eyes.
- If you have a cold or other viral infection, do not share your towels, washcloths, or other personal items with others.
- If you have bacterial conjunctivitis, use separate towels, washcloths, and pillowcases from other family members.
- If you have allergic conjunctivitis, avoid contact with your allergens.
If you have conjunctivitis, it is important to stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the infection to others.