Ophthalmologists in the major city of Karachi have noted a decline in conjunctivitis instances, but they also note that concerns about a future resurgence of the virus still exist. There are currently 100 cases of conjunctivitis every day at the Civil Hospital and 60 cases per day at JPMC.
Cases of conjunctivitis decline, but fears of a resurgence persist
Dr. Khalid Sheikh, the hospital’s medical superintendent, has made sure that the essential medications are available owing to the ongoing pandemic, according to Dr. Haris, the hospital’s additional medical superintendent. Although there has been a decrease in occurrences, he told The Express Tribune that there are still about 100 cases recorded every day, which calls for sustained vigilance.
Dr Pawan Kumar and Dr Sabir Hussain, from the ophthalmology department at JPMC, mentioned that conjunctivitis can easily spread through contact with infected individuals. Transmission occurs by sharing personal items like towels, soaps and tissues.
Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include itching, inflammation, redness, and excessive watery discharge from the eyes. In the initial days of infection, the discomfort is often so severe that individuals affected may be compelled to rub their eyes. However, after approximately four days, the discomfort and tearing subside.
They advised against rubbing the eyes while the virus is present. They advise rinsing the eyes with cold water if the irritation is significant to hasten the healing process. The pink eye virus typically leaves the body in eight to ten days.
When suffering from an infection, the ophthalmologists suggested wearing shades to protect the eyes from strong light. They disproved the myth that conjunctivitis may transmit by just gazing into an infected person’s eyes.