Hospitals report steady rise in conjunctivitis cases

Chennai: Chennai is witnessing a fresh surge in conjunctivitis cases, with hospitals across the city reporting a steady rise in patients seeking treatment for the highly contagious eye infection. Doctors say outpatient departments are seeing at least 10 new cases daily, raising concerns over its rapid spread in crowded neighbourhoods and workplaces. While the infection is generally mild, health experts urge the public to maintain strict hygiene and seek early treatment to curb transmission.Doctors in govt and private hospitals say the seasonal spike has become more noticeable in recent days, with both children and working adults reporting symptoms such as redness, irritation, watery discharge, and light sensitivity."There is a surge in seasonal eye infection cases. Usually, we would get only one case; however, now we are witnessing at least seven to eight cases daily. It is mostly among adults due to the change in weather conditions from monsoon to summer," said Dr M R Chitra, director of the Govt Eye Hospital in Egmore. She added that most patients recover with timely medication, but delays in treatment can prolong discomfort and increase the risk of spreading the infection within families.Medical experts emphasised that conjunctivitis spreads primarily through contact, especially when infected individuals share personal items such as towels, handkerchiefs, or pillows. "Isolation and hygiene are key. Patients should avoid touching their eyes frequently and ensure that their personal items are not used by others," added Dr Chitra.The health department has clarified that the infection does not spread merely by looking at an affected person. Doctors said wearing sunglasses is recommended mainly to reduce light sensitivity rather than to prevent transmission.Doctors advise people to seek medical attention within one or two days of noticing symptoms. As there are several causes of eye redness, only an ophthalmologist can diagnose it accurately. Early diagnosis not only speeds up recovery but also helps prevent complications. In most cases, the infection subsides within a week with proper treatment."With the change in weather conditions and the onset of summer, there is a surge in cases, especially among children," said Dr Kavitha Kalaivani, deputy director of paediatric ophthalmology at Sankara Nethralaya.