What explains the ‘pink eye’ outbreak in India?
Mint explains the outbreak. An alarming increase in conjunctivitis has emerged as a major global health concern, affecting a significant number of people across continents. This contagious eye condition involves the inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like redness, itching, and excessive tearing.
The outbreak has been triggered by various factors, including viral and bacterial infections, allergies, and exposure to irritants. Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis is contagious and often spreads while being in direct contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, usually through hand-to-eye contact. People in crowded areas, offices and children are most likely to get pink eye.
There are several reasons. Incessant rains and flood situation in many parts of the country have led to poor hygiene. The high humidity is also a favourable factor for the spread of the disease.
The main reason behind the outbreak is linked to a viral infection and that has been spreading rapidly across various regions in the country. The contagious nature of the virus, coupled with close human-to-human contact, has facilitated its rapid transmission. Also, after the covid-19 pandemic, the human body is seen to be more susceptible to various kinds of viral infection.
Maintaining a good standard of hand hygiene is a must. Scientists maintain that conjunctivitis is common in India and mostly seen during the rainy season. Even when it is easily transmitted, it is essential to note that conjunctivitis is typically self-resolving and rarely causes any permanent damage to the eye.
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