Red and watery eyes with an irritating itch that won’t go away. If you or anyone around you experiences this more often during the monsoon, you are not alone. Every year, the monsoon season witnesses a surge in eye flu or conjunctivitis cases. According to eye professionals, the number of cases rises by about 30-40 percent during the months of June to September. Either bacterial or viral, eye flu can make your eyes uncomfortable and painful. But, with the right precautions and timely care, you can shield your eyes from this ailment and enjoy the monsoon season stress-free. So, join us as we discuss what eye flu is, why it is more common during the rainy season, and how to prevent yourself from it during the monsoon.
What Is Eye Flu?
Eye flu is a form of infection that results in inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane that covers the inner eyelids and the white portion of the eye. When this membrane is inflamed, the blood vessels inside it become more visible, giving the eye its distinctive crimson or pinkish look. The symptoms of eye flu include eye discomfort, redness, and itching. There are various types of eye infections, including conjunctivitis, styes, and fungal eye infections.
How Eye Flu Spread More in Monsoon?
Although eye infections can occur at any time of year, they are typically more common during the monsoon season. The humid weather and increased pollution offer an ideal habitat for germs and viruses to flourish and reproduce. Overflowing drains and flooded streets also contribute to the accumulation of stagnant water. This has a major role in the increase and dispersal of air pollutants. Furthermore, many people have a compromised immune system during the monsoon season, making them more vulnerable to infections. All of this leads to a rise in the number of highly transmissible eye infections.
How To Keep Eye Flu At Bay During Monsoon?
Eye flu is a painful disease that can take away all the joy from the monsoon. While children and the elderly are more vulnerable to the spread of eye infection, it can affect adults just the same. But the good news is, there are ways you can protect yourself and keep eye flu at bay.
1- Maintain Personal Hygiene
Practicing proper personal cleanliness is one of the best strategies to avoid conjunctivitis. Wash your hands routinely with soap and water, especially after using the restroom, before eating, and after handling shared items. Steer clear of touching or rubbing your eyes, as this might introduce viruses and germs that cause infections.
2- Save Your Eyes From Rainwater
Protect your eyes from direct rainwater exposure during the monsoon season since it can contain contaminants and pollutants that could contribute to eye illnesses. Should your eyes come into contact with rainwater, immediately rinse them with sterile, clean water to reduce the chance of contracting the infection.
3- Do Not Share Personal Items
Conjunctivitis is easily transmitted through infected personal items such as towels, hankies, eye cosmetics, specs, and contact lenses. During the monsoon season, don’t share these things with anyone, even your family members. This can help prevent infectious pathogens from spreading from one person to another.
4- Keep Your Surroundings Clean
Allergens and dust in your living areas might make eye irritation worse. Make sure there are no allergens or dust in your living space. Keep damp and moldy places clean on a regular basis and avoid letting stagnant water build up because these can host dangerous microbes that can lead to eye infections.
5- Avoid Crowded Places
Infectious diseases like conjunctivitis can thrive in congested areas during the height of the monsoon season. You can stop viral infections from spreading by limiting your social interactions during the monsoon. Avoiding crowded places like water parks and buses can help lower the chance of contracting an infection. But if you have to visit crowded places, try to cover your eyes with shades or specs to reduce the risk of infection.
Know When To See a Doctor
While some cases of eye flu heal on their own, it is best to see a doctor if you are experiencing any signs of an eye infection. Consult a doctor if your symptoms last more than a week, if you experience serious discomfort or major vision abnormalities, or if you notice thick, colored discharge from your eyes. If you or someone in your family gets symptoms of eye flu, do not try to self-medicate with over-the-counter eye drops or old prescriptions, as this might worsen the situation. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications and ensure a swift recovery.
FAQs
What is eye flu?
Conjunctivitis, often known as eye flu, is an infection that results in watery discharge, redness, and itching in the eyes. It spreads easily, particularly during the monsoon season.
Why does eye flu increase during monsoon?
The rainy season is an ideal time for eye flu to spread because of the humid weather, close indoor contact, and higher viral activity.
How long does eye flu usually last?
Viral eye flu often heals within 7-10 days; however, bacterial infections might require treatment with antibiotic eye drops recommended by a doctor.
Can eye flu spread through touch?
Yes. Eye flu spreads easily through direct contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects and then rubbing your eyes.
How can I prevent eye flu in the monsoon?
Wash your hands often, avoid sharing personal items, and keep your eyes protected from rainwater or dirty hands to reduce your risk of infection.
Is it safe to go to work or school with conjunctivitis?
No. Since eye flu is highly contagious, it’s best to rest at home until symptoms improve and your doctor says it’s safe to return.
Can I use home remedies to treat eye infections?
Mild irritation may improve with clean, warm compresses. But avoid self-medicating; always consult an eye specialist if symptoms persist or worsen.
When should I see a doctor for eye flu?
Seek medical help if you have severe pain, blurred vision, thick discharge, or if your symptoms don’t improve within a week.
(The article is written by Ehsan Siddiqui, Team Lead, Clinical Health & Content and reviewed by Monalisa Deka, Senior Health Content Editor)
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