𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐄𝐲𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫
SHAKEELA ANDRABI
SRINAGAR: Conjunctivitis cases have increased in Kashmir as more than 8829 confirmed cases of the ‘Pink Eye’ have been reported from different parts of the Valley during the past few weeks.
As per the official data, 4352 cases of Pink Eye have been recorded from various parts of Kashmir and number of cases in Jammu Kashmir is almost 15000 till August 10.
According to the latest data cases are increasing after every passing day and at present 8829 cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as the “pink eye” have been recorded from different areas of Kashmir during the past two weeks.
Anantnag has reported the most infection cases – 1565, followed by Baramulla with 1415, Srinagar 1104, Pulwama 1439, Budgam 1004, Shopian 821, Kupwara 567, Kulgam 436, Ganderbal 440, and Bandipora 38.
Maintaining optimal hygiene and emphasised frequent hand washing with soap and water , particularly after touching the face or contaminated person is the best way to keep healthy .
Doctors Association Kashmir President Dr Nissar-ul-Hassan in an exclusive conversation to the STATE TMES said, that for halting the spread of the infection, people should keep distance from those who are infectious. He said that we have seen in Monsoon season, number of cases of pink eye infection are increasing because virus got more active in this season.
This disease is communicable and spreads very fast especially among student, who don’t take care of hand hygiene, once they touch their hand on eye, they put it on the table in a classroom that spends a lot of time each other.
The main reason for this is that there is an epidemic like situation in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country .
“In situations where soap and water aren’t available, opt for hand sanitiser containing at least 60 percent alcohol. Avoid touching the eyes to prevent germ transfer. Steer clear of infected individuals, as conjunctivitis is highly contagious. Refrain from sharing personal items and ensure surfaces prone to virus contact are regularly disinfected. Consider wearing eye protection when in close proximity to infected individuals. Employ respiratory etiquette by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of tissues properly. Prevent eye rubbing to curb virus spread. Stay home if infected and seek guidance from a healthcare professional before resuming activities. Adhere to contact lens guidelines, replace lenses and cases regularly, and maintain cleanliness in shared environments. Lastly, avoid swimming pools to prevent further transmission,” he added.
Dr Hassan said that cases are declining now and those who are getting infected should self- isolate as self-isolation is the best way to control this viral infection.
No matter the number, there is no need to panic. Infection is completely curable, but hand hygiene and isolation are essential for control .
Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as “pink eye” is a common eye illness in India and other countries.
A thin, translucent membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, the conjunctiva, is affected. Eye virus is extremely infectious and spreads quickly, especially in crowded settings.
