Preventive steps against pinkeye stressed

Islamabad: Ahead of the monsoon season, the doctors have warned the people should take preventive measures against conjunctivitis.

According to Dr Wasim Khawaja of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, conjunctivitis also known as pinkeye is a viral eye infection that spreads through contact.

He told ‘The News’ that though the disease had high incidence in the monsoon season, it affected the people earlier, too. The physician said those with pinkeye complained about itching, burning and excessive tearing of one eye or both.

“Watering, swelling and redness of eyes and light sensitivity are the common symptoms of conjunctivitis,” he said. Dr Wasim said the disease spread by casual contact, sharing of towels, pillowcases and even cosmetics, and facial contact. He said the conjunctivitis patients should avoid shaking hands with unaffected people as the virus was very contagious.

He asked the people to strictly maintain hygiene by washing hands and eyes with cold clean water and not sharing handkerchiefs and towels. Dr Wasim also warned people against bathing in nullahs and streams saying the unhealthy act could spread conjunctivitis.