Every new strain of Covid-19 comes with one new symptom. from loss of smell and taste muscle pain cough and cold to breathing problems When the coronavirus infection develops Its symptoms are always changing. according to the latest report Doctors have suggested that the new Omicron subvariant XBB.1.16 can cause conjunctivitis – red and itchy eyes, especially in infants and young children.
Dr. Srikanth R, Ophthalmologist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai told Health Shots that non-purulent and itchy conjunctivitis with sticky discharge is an epidemic.
“In recent years There are many children with post-COVID-19 conjunctivitis. This is due to Omicron’s latest subvariate, XBB 1.16. The general trend seen in treated infants is high fever, cold and cough,” Dr. Srikan said
Summer makes people more susceptible to conjunctivitis. Also known as Madras Eye or Pink Eye, it is a contagious disease that affects the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid. This condition can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection (adenoviral conjunctivitis) or by an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
Signs of conjunctivitis include redness, swelling, itching, watery eyes, and secretions that may form around the eyelids. The infection can spread from person to person through contact with contaminated surfaces such as towels, door handles and eye drops. This infection can affect all age groups.
Fortunately, there are several steps that can be followed to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis and reduce the risk of infection.
Tips for preventing conjunctivitis
1. Wash your hands as often as possible.
Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and often. Especially after touching the face or coming into contact with a person with conjunctivitis. Use soap and warm water. and dry your hands with a clean towel. Here are some tips for washing your hands properly to avoid infections like COVID-19 or conjunctivitis.
2. Avoid touching the eyes.
Try to avoid touching your eyes with your hands as much as possible. To ensure that eye contact does not cause any complications, it is essential to wash your hands and keep them clean regularly.
3. Use a clean cloth to wipe.
Use a clean cloth to dry your face and hands. and avoid sharing towels with others
4. Avoid sharing personal belongings.
Do not share personal items such as pillows, bed covers, eye drops or cosmetics with others.
5. Stay away from infected people.
Avoid close contact with people with conjunctivitis until they’ve healed.
6. Wear sunglasses
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust and other irritants. that may cause conjunctivitis Dark glasses are recommended to avoid light sensitivity.
7. Keep the surrounding area clean.
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, and bathroom fixtures.
8. Avoid using contact lenses.
Contact lens use must be avoided until the infection has completely cleared.
9. See a doctor
If there are symptoms of conjunctivitis, it is advisable to see a doctor immediately. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antivirals. And may advise the affected person to stop working or attending school at home until the infection has cleared. It is advisable to see a doctor as soon as possible to begin treatment and diligently take the medication as directed.
However, the main form of treatment for this illness involves the use of eye drops. and giving the eyes a rest by limiting screen time. In addition, it is recommended that infected people monitor the vision of each eye separately each morning to detect early corneal involvement.
due to the number of people infected with COVID-19 still rising So it’s better to prevent than regret. Take the right precautions to protect yourself from the coronavirus and its symptoms.
