Eye flu

Conjunctivitis/ Eye Flu

Conjunctivit is is an infection of the conjunctiva (the front 'skin' of the eye). It is also called "pink eye" or “eye flu”


It is very common especially during rainy season


Most cases are caused by common viruses - often the

same ones that cause coughs and colds


Infective conjunctivitis is not serious and clears within a week or so without leaving any permanent

damage to the eye

Symptoms

It usually involves both eyes though occasionally it may start in one eye which later spreads to the

other over a few days

Symptoms

The eye is red or pink and is associated with grittiness

and soreness

Symptoms

The eyelids become swollen, and are often stuck together

with gluey material ('discharge') after a sleep

Treatment• Not treatment is an option for mild infections as it clears on its own within 1-2 weeks.

• Bathing the eyes from inside is not recommended as it washes off all the germ fighting proteins being secreted in the tears.

• Lubricant eye drops may be used to reduce eye discomfort.

Prevention

Do not wear contact lenses until symptoms have completely gone

PreventionInfective conjunctivitis is contagious and spreads by touch and through objects touched by infected hands. To prevent spread to other people:

•Wash your hands regularly, particularly after touching your eyes.•Do not share towels, pillows, handkerchiefs or utensils.

When to go to Doctor

All case should be screened to confirm the diagnosis especially when patient develops ::•Marked eye pain.•Intolerance to light (photophobia).•Spots or blisters on the skin next to the eye.•Blurring of vision which does not improve with blinking.

Does a patient need to stay off school / work?

The safest approach to avoid spread is to stay home until

there is no longer any discharge from the eye(s)


Viral conjunctivitis spreads easily between people.

Younger children, who may not remember to wash their hands or avoid touching their

eyes, should probably not attend school until the discharge has resolved.


Older students or adults may choose

to attend school/work, although they

should limit close contact with others

The Lifeline –Hand Washing

Hand washing is an essential and highly

effective way to prevent the spread

of infection


Hands should be wet with water and plain soap, and rubbed together for 15 to

30 seconds. It is not necessary to use

antibacterial hand soap


Teach children to wash their hands before and after eating and after touching the eyes,

coughing, or sneezing.


Alcohol-based hand rubs are not effective against the more common

viruses causing conjunctivitis and are therefore not recommended for

disinfection of hands.

Care about your Precious Gift of Sight

Thank You

Health & Medicine

Eye flu