Viral eye flu outbreak hits Jammu, GoI seeks detailed report

JAMMU, July 27: An unprecedented eye infection (flu) is rapidly affecting the people in the Jammu region, with children being particularly impacted.
Recognizing the urgency and seriousness of the situation, the Government of India (GoI) has requested a comprehensive report from the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory administration regarding the fast-spreading infection.
Dr Ashok Sharma, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Government Medical College and Hospital-Jammu (GMC&H), revealed that approximately 40% of the daily patients visiting the hospital are suffering from the viral eye infection. He emphasized that while viral eye infections have been seen in the past, the current rate of spread is unprecedented.
“This viral eye infection is similar to Covid-19 and will likely subside as people develop immunity, just as with Covid-19,” stated Dr Ashok.
The situation has become alarming, with eye infection cases escalating each day, leaving precaution as the primary remedy, according to experts.
The severity of the situation prompted the Government of India to write a letter to the J&K UT administration, seeking detailed information about the number of eye infection cases, their causes, and the precautions being taken.
Dr. Rajeev Sharma, Director of Health Services, Jammu, confirmed receiving the letter and stated that they have requested all districts to submit comprehensive reports on the cases within the next few days. Once the reports are compiled, the administration will consult with the central government to issue an advisory.
The gravity of the situation has also prompted schools to take action. Various schools have been urging students, suffering from any kind of eye infection or related symptoms, not to attend school. The situation is being closely monitored as health authorities work to contain and manage the outbreak of this unusual viral eye flu.