Srinagar, Aug 11: Kashmir is witnessing a surge in conjunctivitis cases as 5,320 cases have been reported with health officials saying that measures have been put in place to control the spread.
As per figures of the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, the valley has so far reported 5,320 cases and the highest numbers of cases were reported from Pulwama and Baramulla districts.
The total figures include 999 cases in Baramulla, 924 cases in Pulwama, 786 cases from Srinagar, 781 cases in Anantnag, 601 in Shopian, 412 in Kupwara, 287 in Ganderbal, 351 in Budgam and 15 in Bandipora.
Head Department of Ophthalmology, Govt. Medical College, Srinagar, Prof. Sabia Rashid said that the department sees 40-50 people with conjunctivitis every day in its OPD.
“This is a viral infection that comes every year. This year there were more floods and infection has increased due to rains which is the reason why cases have gone up,” she said.
“Over the past two weeks we have been witnessing a surge in cases. There is no need to panic and it recovers itself just like other flues and viral infections,” the HoD said.
A conjunctivitis patient generally experiences eyes turning red, feeling itchy and painful, and witnessing a watery or thick discharge. The disease can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens, and in some cases can be highly infectious.
“Initially when the viral infection attacks a patient they face discomfort and eyes turn red. The infection spreads very quickly just like respiratory infections. It can also spread in crowded places and there is a need of precautionary measures,” Prof. Sabia said.
She said if a child catches the infection they should be kept at home for some days so that it can‘t spread to other children.
In order to protect oneself from the infection, proper hygiene is essential, such as ensuring one doesn’t touch the eyes with unclean hands, and doesn’t share articles like towels, contact lenses, or eye makeup products.
“The infection rarely affects vision and it recovers itself. Those who have been infected by it should consult doctors and get treated. It can be treated with eye drops, precautions are necessary,” she said.
The doctor advised that people who have been infected should avoid close contact with other individuals so as to stop the spread.
Dr Mir Mushtaq, spokesperson Directorate of Health Services Kashmir said the health department has taken various measures to control the spread of Conjunctivitis.
The department launched a robust surveillance system to track the number of conjunctivitis cases, identify trends, and detect outbreaks early. “Healthcare providers are encouraged to report cases promptly to the health department for accurate data collection,” he said.
The department has launched public awareness campaigns to educate the public about conjunctivitis, its symptoms, modes of transmission, and preventive measures. These campaigns are conducted through means of posters, pamphlets, social media, and community outreach programs.
“Public is being informed about the current situation, preventive measures, and any necessary actions through regular social media, press releases, media briefings, and public service announcements,” Mir said.
It has also started contact tracing to identify and notify individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed cases. “This helps to prevent further transmission and allows for early detection of new cases,” he added.
India is currently witnessing an outbreak of conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘pink eye’, a contagious eye infection in hospitals in the national capital.
