Due to the recent heavy rainfall and flooding, there has been a noticeable increase in cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as “eye flu,” particularly among school-aged children. This surge in infections has raised concerns about the well-being of young students. In response, parents can take specific measures and consult with the top paediatrician in Ahmedabad to protect their children from this contagious condition.
In response to the escalating cases of conjunctivitis in various regions of the country, numerous schools have taken proactive measures to mitigate its spread. The rapid transmission of this highly contagious ailment in areas such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and the Northeast can be attributed to the flooding and waterlogging resulting from intense monsoon rains.
Many educational institutions, students have been advised to adhere to hygiene protocols, including frequent handwashing, refraining from touching their eyes, avoiding the sharing of hand towels, and maintaining appropriate social distance.
The prevalent form of conjunctivitis that is currently spreading is primarily an acute viral infection. This particular infection tends to follow its own course and usually resolves on its own. Common symptoms include redness, itching, eye stickiness, and swollen eyelids. If a bacterial infection is present, the eye discharge is often yellow or green. Although viral infections do not typically respond to immediate medical treatment or eye drops, the symptoms usually subside within a span of one to two weeks.
Children are particularly susceptible to conjunctivitis due to their higher levels of physical activity and close interactions with peers, whether at school or in recreational settings like parks. Children’s propensity to frequently touch their eyes with potentially contaminated hands further heightens their vulnerability to viral or bacterial exposure.
Best Paediatrician in Ahmedabad emphasises the critical importance of safeguarding your children’s vision amid the rising tide of eye flu cases during seasonal transitions. He provides essential tips for parents and guardians to help prevent infections in children.
To minimise the risk of eye flu in children, here are key preventive measures:
Prioritise Hand Hygiene: Encourage children to maintain clean hands through regular handwashing, as contaminated hands can transmit the infection.
Discourage Eye Touching: Train your child to refrain from touching their eyes frequently, reducing the likelihood of infection.
Promote Tissue Use: Emphasise the importance of using tissues when sneezing or coughing to minimise exposure to airborne viruses.
Clean Personal Items: Regularly sanitise eyeglasses, contact lenses, and any items that come into contact with the eyes.
Maintain Social Distance: Encourage children to maintain a safe distance from peers who exhibit symptoms to prevent contagion.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: Should your child display any symptoms of eye flu, consult an immediate Top paediatrician in Ahmedabad to prevent complications and further spread.
When it comes to the treatment of eye flu, it is crucial to avoid self-medication or the use of over-the-counter eye drops. Consultation with a Best paediatrician in Ahmedabad is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the diagnosis, appropriate medication, including anti-inflammatory and lubricating eye drops, will be prescribed to soothe the eyes and facilitate a quicker recovery. While antibiotic eye drops may be necessary for bacterial infections, it’s worth noting that most cases of conjunctivitis are viral in nature and tend to resolve on their own.
Conclusion
Conjunctivitis cases surge, particularly among school children due to recent floods and heavy rains, proactive measures become essential. By promoting proper hygiene, discouraging eye touching, and seeking timely medical attention, parents can safeguard their children from the contagious eye flu. Heightened awareness and adherence to these precautions will contribute to the well-being of young ones and mitigate the risk of infection transmission within educational settings.
