Wednesday, 02 August 2023 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Members of the medical fraternity have expressed concern at the rise in the number of Covid conjunctivitis cases among children in the State. Doctors point out that Covid conjunctivitis differs significantly from regular eye flu. While eye flu only affects the eyes, Covid conjunctivitis causes coughing, swelling, pain, watery eyes and difficulty in breathing. However, some experts state that the rise in Covid conjunctivitis casesis yet to be proven.
Senior medical officer Dr Rajive Dikshit said, “There has been a rise in cases of Covid conjunctivitis among children in the State, particularly those under the age of 12 years. This may be common among children due to their weaker immune systems compared to adults. Symptoms of Covid conjunctivitis include redness, itchiness and discomfort. It is important for everyone to practice Covid-appropriate behaviour like social distancing, wearing masks and frequent hand washing to prevent the spread of the virus.”
Talking to The Pioneer, senior eye specialist Dr Sushil Ojha said, “The Covid conjunctivitis cases are more common among school going children. Covid conjunctivitis is significantly different from eye flu. The lungs are also affected in addition to the eyes. Children with Covid conjunctivitis may experience breathing difficulties, low endurance and coughing. To prevent Covid conjunctivitis, it is important to take precautions like maintaining social distancing, wearing masks and maintaining proper hygiene,” he said.
Meanwhile, eye specialist Dr Amit Singh told this correspondent that it has been analysed that the current eye flu cases among children are not related to Covid conjunctivitis as it has not been proved yet. However, this year’s eye flu is more severe than in past years and it takes approximately two weeks for both children and adults to recover. He emphasised that maintaining good hygiene and following social distancing guidelines are effective measures to prevent the spread of eye flu.
