Increase in ‘Eye Flu’ Cases in J&K: Doctors Advise Precautions

Srinagar, August 11: Hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir are reporting a rise in the number of patients with symptoms of irritation, redness, swelling, and itching in their eyes, indicating cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as eye flu.

Health experts from both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions have stated that while the cases of eye flu are increasing, there’s no need to panic as the condition typically resolves within one to two weeks for those affected. They stress that taking precautions can significantly help prevent the spread of the infection.

Dr. Rajeev Kumar Sharma, Director of Health Services in Jammu, revealed that 9,127 cases of conjunctivitis were reported in hospitals under the Directorate.

Similarly, Dr. Mir Mushtaq, Spokesperson of the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, shared that 5,320 cases of eye flu had been recorded in hospitals within the Kashmir division under DHSK’s control.

Breakdown of cases:
– Anantnag: 781 cases
– Bandipora: 15 cases
– Baramulla: 999 cases
– Budgam: 351 cases
– Ganderbal: 287 cases
– Kulgam: 164 cases
– Kupwara: 412 cases
– Pulwama: 924 cases
– Shopian: 601 cases
– Srinagar: 786 cases

Notably, these figures exclude cases reported in Government Medical Colleges in both divisions. Hospitals are observing around 20 to 30 cases of eye flu daily in their Outpatient Departments (OPDs).

The Directorate of Health Services Kashmir recently issued an advisory emphasizing personal hygiene and frequent hand washing to control the spread of the condition. The advisory also encourages using hand sanitizers with at least 60 percent alcohol when soap and water are unavailable.

Additionally, the advisory suggests avoiding touching the eyes, practicing respiratory etiquette by covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, and disposing of tissues properly. It calls for prevention of eye rubbing and staying home if infected.

Doctors have classified eye flu as a “self-limiting infection” and stated that an individual’s immunity plays a role in its course. They note that the monsoon’s humid conditions create a favorable environment for viruses or bacteria responsible for these infections to spread rapidly.

Common symptoms of eye flu include watery discharge, redness, congestion, sensitivity to light, and hemorrhages in the eye’s superficial layer. While most cases are not severe and can be treated with over-the-counter eye drops and antibacterial medications, untreated bacterial conjunctivitis could lead to complications affecting vision.

Health experts stress the importance of avoiding eye touching, especially with unwashed hands, to curb the spread of the infection. Precautions like maintaining hygiene and avoiding crowded places can play a crucial role in preventing the further spread of the condition.