Baramulla, Aug 11: As cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘pink eye’, experience a rapid upswing in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, the authorities have taken swift measures to curb its spread. In response to the alarming outbreak, schools in the district have been directed to prioritize hygiene and promptly report instances of conjunctivitis to nearby health centers.
The parents have been urged to collaborate with educational institutions in managing the affected children’s conditions.
Aijaz Abdullah Saraf, Additional District Development Commissioner of Baramulla, emphasized the importance of awareness and precautionary measures in eradicating the disease. The unexpected surge prompted the ADDC to convene a meeting of concerned officers to devise a comprehensive action plan to address the outbreak.
The meeting was attended by various officials, including Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Raina, Additional Deputy Commissioner, and Dr. Bashir Ahmad Malik, Chief Medical Officer of Baramulla. During the meeting, a detailed discussion ensued, resulting in the formulation of a robust strategy to mitigate the spread of conjunctivitis within the district.
Expressing his concern over the outbreak, Saraf stressed the need for a coordinated approach and effective precautionary measures to combat the disease. Medical professionals also addressed the gathering, shedding light on the various causes of conjunctivitis, which encompass viral and bacterial infections, parasitic infestations, and allergies.
Senior Ophthalmologist of GMC Baramulla, Sheikh Sadat, assured the attendees that while the discomfort is undeniable, conjunctivitis generally does not threaten vision. “Most cases tend to resolve without lasting effects, provided timely treatment and proper care are administered,” he said.
The experts emphasized preventive measures, advocating for stringent hand hygiene practices, including frequent hand washing with soap and water.
The healthcare officials said that in the past few weeks, over 960 cases of “pink eye” have been treated at health centers across the Baramulla district.
Dr Parvaiz Masoodi, Medical Superintendent at the affiliated hospital of GMC Baramulla, said they are seeing an average of approximately 15 patients daily, and there has been a noticeable increase in cases over the past two weeks.
Dr Shabana Khan, Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at GMC Baramulla, elaborated on various causes of conjunctivitis, including viral and bacterial infections, parasitic infestations, and allergies. She, however, said prompt treatment and proper care are crucial to prevent complications.
While individuals of all age groups could be affected, the young, elderly and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable, Dr Shabana said. She stressed the importance of preventive measures, encouraging individuals to maintain meticulous hand hygiene by regularly washing with soap and water.
The doctor advised the parents to instill this practice in their children, while also discouraging actions like eye rubbing and sharing of towels or washcloths. She recommended refraining from sharing eye cosmetics and personal eye care items.
