Watch out for conjunctivitis this monsoon

"Every year the onset of the monsoon is coupled with an outbreak of conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis is more common as the moisture in the air is extremely favorable for an outbreak to occur," says Dr Kaushik Murali, Pediatric Ophthalmologist, Sankara Eye Hospital.

Narayana Nethralaya treats nearly twenty patients every day with eye infections, predominantly allergic or viral conjunctivitis. "In the monsoons we get a lot of conjunctivitis cases and daily we see around fifteen to twenty such cases. Luckily only a few cases come with complications where the eye does not heal for more than a month because of other secondary factors," says Dr Bhujang Shetty, Chairman & Managing Director.

Since it is windy and dusty during the monsoons, doctors are advising people to wear sunglasses, to protect their eyes from dust particles. "Though conjunctivitis lasts for a week, occasionally it may persist for up to 14 days. Get your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist as at times the infection could lead to complications," says Dr Kaushik.

"Both direct and indirect contact with the eye secretion causes the spreading of conjunctivitis and to avoid it people should consciously make an effort to wash their hands and not touch their eyes or rub their eyes," says Dr Bhujang. "Observe personal hygiene in the rainy season and keep your eyes healthy. To prevent conjunctivitis, maintain hygiene and avoid touching your eyes. Wash your hands frequently. As the secretions of the eyes are contagious, avoid sharing your towels or bed sheets with others," adds Dr Kaushik.