The Sindh Health Department has issued guidance to District Health Officers (DHOs) in a bid to curb the rising cases of conjunctivitis in Karachi and surrounding urban areas of the province.
Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is seeing an uptick in both the city and neighboring urban regions, as reported by the Sindh Health Department. While there have been no reported cases of acute viral conjunctivitis, a preventative approach is essential due to its highly contagious nature.
This pink eye infection can be triggered by viral and bacterial infections, as well as allergies. Bacterial conjunctivitis, more prevalent among school-aged children than adults, tends to occur from December to April. Symptoms include redness, streaks, swelling, itching, and burning in the eyes. Bacterial cases can also involve pus discharge and increased tearing, causing eyelids to stick together. In some instances, bacterial conjunctivitis may coincide with ear infections.
Viral conjunctivitis may accompany symptoms of a cold, flu, or respiratory infection, typically starting in one eye and spreading to the other within days. Allergy-like symptoms, including an itchy nose, throat, sneezing, and possibly asthma, may also occur.
Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious and easily transmitted. Practicing good hygiene, such as thorough handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds and using hand sanitizer, can significantly reduce the risk of infection and its spread. It's crucial to wash hands promptly after administering eye drops to affected individuals.
