Nagaland issues advisory over eye flu outbreak in India

DIMAPUR – In view of the “sudden outbreak” of conjunctivitis (eye flu) in the country, the government of Nagaland has issued an advisory on symptoms, relief and preventive measures.

The advisory issued by the department of Health and Family Welfare stated that conjunctivitis or “pink eye,” is an irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva, which covers the white part of the eyeball.

“It can be caused by allergies or a bacterial or viral infection. Conjunctivitis (Eye Flu) can be extremely contagious and is spread by contact with eye secretions from someone who is infected.

“Preventing the eye flu is necessary for avoiding the inconveniences caused by the infection. One must maintain good hygiene which includes washing hands and avoiding touching eyes with bare or unwashed hands. One must also avoid sharing personal belongings like towels, lenses or glasses. The area where you live should be cleaned properly,” the advisory stated.

Advisory for Conjunctivitis

Symptoms 

•             Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid.

•             Increased amount of tears 

•             Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes (especially after sleep) 

•             Green or white discharge from the eye 

•             Itchy eyes 

•             Burning eyes 

•             Blurred vision 

•             Increased sensitivity to light 

Relief from Symptoms 

•             Protect your eyes from dirt and other irritating substances 

•             Avoid the use of makeup 

•             Remove contact lenses if you wear them 

•             Non-prescription “artificial tears,” a type of eye drops, may help relieve itching and burning. However use eye drops only at your doctor’s discretion 

Prevention from Spreading 

•             Don’t touch or rub the infected eye(s). 

•             Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. 

•             Wash any discharge from your eyes several times a day using a fresh cotton ball or paper towel, after which, discard the cotton ball or paper towel and wash your hands with soap and warm water.

•             Wash your bed linens, pillowcases, and towels in hot water and detergent. 

•             Don’t share eye makeup with anyone. 

•             Never wear another person’s contact lenses. 

•             Avoid sharing common articles such as unwashed towels and glasses. 

•             Wash your hands after applying the eye drops or ointment to your eye or your child’s eye.

•             Do not use eye drops that were used for an infected eye in a non-infected eye. 

•             Keep your child home from school until he or she is no longer contagious (approximately 4 days). It’s usually safe to return to school when symptoms have been resolved; however, it’s important to continue practicing good hygiene.