Kolkata Gripped by Widespread Conjunctivitis Outbreak

The City of Joy is currently battling a relentless wave of conjunctivitis, with hospitals and clinics across Kolkata reporting an unprecedented surge in cases. What began as a trickle has now turned into a deluge, as thousands of residents find themselves grappling with the uncomfortable and highly contagious eye infection. From school-going children to office workers, the outbreak has laid low a significant portion of the population, leading to packed ophthalmology departments and a palpable sense of caution in the air.

Hospitals are witnessing a staggering 30-40% increase in patients presenting with red, itchy, and watery eyes, a clear indicator of the outbreak’s scale. The situation is particularly acute in the Out Patient Departments (OPDs) of major government and private hospitals, where long queues have become a common sight. This public health challenge underscores the rapid transmission of the infection in a densely populated metropolis like Kolkata.

Understanding the Surge: Why Now?

Medical experts in the city point to a confluence of factors that have created a perfect storm for this conjunctivitis outbreak. The primary culprit is the current weather pattern—characterized by high humidity, intermittent heavy rainfall, and waterlogging. These conditions are ideal for the proliferation of viruses and bacteria that cause the infection.

Key Factors Driving the Outbreak:

• Favorable Weather Conditions: The humid and wet environment acts as a breeding ground for the causative agents of conjunctivitis.
• High Population Density: In a city like Kolkata, close physical proximity in public transport, offices, and schools facilitates rapid person-to-person transmission.
• Viral Dominance: A significant majority of the current cases are viral in nature, which is notoriously more contagious than bacterial conjunctivitis.
• Lack of Awareness: Many people are unaware of the simple preventive measures needed to curb the spread, leading to unintentional transmission within families and communities.

Recognizing the Symptoms: Is it Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the clear, thin tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. Being able to identify the symptoms early is crucial for managing the condition and preventing its spread.

The most common signs and symptoms include:

• Intense redness in one or both eyes
• A gritty, burning, or itching sensation
• Watery or thick, sticky discharge that may crust over overnight
• Increased tear production
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Swollen eyelids

It is important to note that while viral conjunctivitis often starts in one eye and can spread to the other, bacterial conjunctivitis may produce a thicker, yellow-green discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative to consult a doctor rather than self-medicate.

Breaking the Chain: Prevention is Better Than Cure

Given the highly infectious nature of the virus driving this outbreak, prevention is the most powerful tool at our disposal. Adopting strict hygiene practices can significantly reduce your risk of contracting and spreading the infection.

Essential Preventive Measures to Follow:

• Wash Your Hands Frequently: Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. This is the single most effective way to prevent the spread.
• Avoid Touching Your Eyes: Your hands can transfer the virus from contaminated surfaces directly to your eyes.
• Do Not Share Personal Items: This includes towels, handkerchiefs, eye makeup, pillows, and spectacles.
• Maintain Distance: If someone in your family is infected, try to maintain a safe distance and avoid close contact.
• Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and phone screens.
• Stay Home if Infected: If you develop conjunctivitis, it is advisable to stay home from work, school, or public places to prevent transmitting it to others.

Navigating Treatment and Dispelling Myths

A critical piece of advice from ophthalmologists across Kolkata is to avoid self-medication, especially with steroid-based eye drops. Steroids can severely complicate the infection, potentially leading to corneal damage and prolonged recovery. A proper diagnosis by a medical professional is essential to determine whether the infection is viral or bacterial and to receive the correct treatment.

Common Treatment Approaches:

• Viral Conjunctivitis: Much like a common cold, viral conjunctivitis usually runs its course in one to two weeks. Treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms. This may include using lubricating artificial tears, applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and itching, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: For bacterial infections, a doctor will prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments to eliminate the bacteria.

It is also vital to dispel a common myth: conjunctivitis is not spread by looking at an infected person. The transmission occurs through direct or indirect contact with the liquid discharge from an infected person’s eye.

A Collective Responsibility

The current conjunctivitis outbreak in Kolkata is a stark reminder of how quickly infectious diseases can spread in an urban environment. While the infection is typically self-limiting and not a major threat to vision, the discomfort and disruption it causes are significant. The onus is on every citizen to practice good hygiene and be socially responsible.

By staying informed, following medical advice, and adhering to preventive measures, we can collectively help curb the spread of this outbreak. If you or a family member shows symptoms, seek professional medical care promptly, avoid public spaces, and commit to a strict hygiene routine. Together, the city can overcome this wave of pink eye and restore comfort and health to its residents.