Eye infections rise in Mumbai, doctors blame weather

Mumbai: The city has witnessed a spurt in the cases of eye infections, such as conjunctivitis membranous conjunctivitis (MC) and microsporidiosis, a rare disease caused by a parasite called microsporidia. According to ophthalmologists at the state-run J.J. Hospital, the changes in temperature as well as the intermittent rains are the reason behind the increase in the number of cases reported.

Speaking to The Asian Age, Dr. Ragini Parekh, head of the opthalmology department at J. J. Hospital says, “There are 25 people walking in every day with viral infections, whereas last year it was just 10 to 12 per day. High humidity levels and the intermittent rains have led to a rise in cases. Rain and increased humidity provide an ideal environment for the growth and spread of disease-causing viruses and bacteria,” she said.

The other eye infections, which are most common in this season like, red eyes and watery discharge can be attributed to due to conjunctivitis, styes, dry eyes and corneal ulcers.  

 

According to eye specialists, this is an ideal time for these micro-organisms to thrive as the temperature is perfect for their growth and multiplication. Hence it is important to be cautious and use clean water to wash the eyes, otherwise the bacteria in that water could give you a serious infection. “As soon as symptoms like redness, swelling, water discharge or any kind of discomfort is experienced, the patient should be rushed immediately to an ophthalmologist. Self-medication could prove to injurious to your eyes,” said Dr. T. P, Lahane, ophthalmologist and dean of J. J. Hospital.

“Use an antibiotic eye drop to treat infections prescribed by an ophthalmologist. Also the use of contact lenses should be avoided during any kind of infection in the eye,” he said. Close your eyes when they get soaked in the rain or rainwater falls into your eyes as it is a carrier of atmospheric pollutants, which are harmful for the eyes, he added.