Kolkata Sees Conjunctivitis Surge Amid Temperature Fluctuations

The City of Joy is currently grappling with an unwelcome guest—a sharp and widespread surge in conjunctivitis cases. As Kolkata experiences a period of erratic weather, swinging between intense humidity and sudden downpours, its residents are facing the itchy, watery, and painful consequences. Clinics and hospitals are reporting a significant influx of patients complaining of red, irritated eyes, turning this common ailment into a city-wide concern.

This isn’t just a simple spike in numbers; it’s a public health scenario directly influenced by the city’s unpredictable climate. Understanding the link between the weather and this eye infection is the first step toward effective prevention and care.

The Unseen Link: How Weather Worsens Eye Health

The recent seesawing temperatures in Kolkata are more than just a topic of conversation; they are a primary catalyst for the current conjunctivitis outbreak. Medical experts point to a few key reasons why this happens:

• High Humidity as a Breeding Ground: Conjunctivitis, especially the viral and bacterial forms, thrives in warm, moist conditions. The high humidity levels in the air create an ideal environment for viruses and bacteria to multiply and spread more easily from person to person.
• Weakened Immunity: Sudden and frequent changes in temperature can stress the body, potentially weakening the immune system. This makes individuals more susceptible to infections they might otherwise fend off.
• Increased Indoor Crowding: The uncomfortable, sticky weather often drives people indoors into shared, air-conditioned spaces. This closer proximity in malls, offices, and public transport facilitates the rapid transmission of the highly contagious viral form of the infection.
• Allergen Proliferation: The fluctuating weather patterns also contribute to higher levels of pollen, dust, and other allergens in the air. This can trigger allergic conjunctivitis, which, while not infectious, adds to the overall number of people suffering from red, itchy eyes and can sometimes pave the way for a secondary bacterial infection.

Recognizing the Enemy: Symptoms to Watch Out For

Conjunctivitis, often called “pink eye,” is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. The symptoms can vary depending on the type (viral, bacterial, or allergic), but there are common signs that Kolkatans should be vigilant about:

Common Symptoms Across All Types:

• Redness in one or both eyes
• A gritty feeling, as if there’s sand in the eye
• Itching or irritation (especially pronounced in allergic conjunctivitis)
• Watery or thick discharge that may crust over overnight
• Tearing and sensitivity to light

Type-Specific Indicators:

• Viral Conjunctivitis: Typically presents with a watery discharge and often starts in one eye before spreading to the other. It is extremely contagious and is frequently associated with a cold or sore throat.
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Often features a thicker, yellow-green discharge that can cause the eyelids to stick together, especially after sleep.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Usually affects both eyes simultaneously and is characterized by intense itching, along with tearing and swelling of the eyelids. It is not contagious.

Stopping the Spread: Your Shield Against Conjunctivitis

In the face of this outbreak, prevention is your most powerful tool. Given the contagious nature of viral and bacterial conjunctivitis, adopting strict hygiene practices is non-negotiable.

The Golden Rule of Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. This is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of the infection.

• Avoid Touching Your Eyes: Make a conscious effort to keep your hands away from your face and eyes. This prevents transferring germs from surfaces to your eyes.
• No Sharing Policy: Do not share personal items like towels, washcloths, eye makeup, pillows, or handkerchiefs. These can easily harbor and transfer infectious agents.
• Keep a Safe Distance: If someone in your family or workplace is infected, maintain a respectful distance. Avoid close contact and do not share utensils.
• Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean common surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and phone screens with a disinfectant.
• Protect Your Eyes: Wearing sunglasses can not only protect your eyes from harsh light if they are sensitive but may also provide a minor physical barrier against airborne irritants.

Navigating Treatment and Care: What to Do If You Get Infected

If you suspect you have conjunctivitis, the first and most crucial step is to consult a doctor or an ophthalmologist. Self-medication, especially with steroid-based eye drops, can be dangerous and worsen the condition.

Appropriate Medical Responses:

• Viral Conjunctivitis: Much like a common cold, this type usually has to run its course, which can take one to two weeks. Your doctor may recommend artificial tears, cool compresses, and strict hygiene to manage symptoms and prevent spread. Antiviral medication may be needed in severe cases.
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: This is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments prescribed by a doctor. It’s important to complete the full course of medication even if symptoms improve.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: The primary treatment is to avoid the allergen if possible. Doctors often prescribe antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops to relieve itching and redness.

Home Care and Comfort Measures:

• Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe away any discharge from your eyes. Use a separate cloth for each eye.
• Apply a cool compress to your closed eyelids to soothe inflammation and itching.
• If you wear contact lenses, stop using them immediately and switch to glasses until your doctor gives you the all-clear.
• Discard any eye makeup you were using when you became infected to avoid re-contamination.

A City on Alert: The Way Forward

The current conjunctivitis surge in Kolkata is a stark reminder of how closely public health is tied to environmental conditions. While the weather is beyond our control, our response to it is not. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms early, and adhering to rigorous preventive measures, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones.

This outbreak will eventually subside, but the lesson in hygiene and proactive health management remains. Let’s work together to keep our vision clear and our city healthy, one clean hand at a time.