As conjunctivitis cases soar in the country, it is important to steer clear of all the false information around it. While taking precautionary measures can prevent an eye infection, being more aware about how it spreads, its symptoms, and treatment options can curb the transmission and also facilitate effective management.
One leading misconception about eye flu or conjunctivitis is that it spreads by looking into an infected person’s eyes. Is it true? Dr Yogish S Kamath, Professor and Head Of Department-Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, answers in an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team.
What Is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the inner surface of the eyelids. It can be caused by various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, irritants, or underlying health conditions. Common symptoms include redness, itchiness, excessive tearing, and discharge from the eye.
Also Read: All About Eye Flu: Expert Debunks Myths About This Condition
In general, 80% of acute cases of conjunctivitis are caused by viruses, the most common pathogen being adenovirus, says research published in StatPearls Publishing.
Another study published in the Journal BMC Ophthalmology highlights that the incidence of bacterial conjunctivitis was estimated to be 135 in 10,000.
Can It Spread Just By Looking Into An Infected Person’s Eyes?
Dr Kamath says, “Conjunctivitis does not spread by looking into an infected person's eye.”
“Viruses, bacteria, allergies, irritants, or other substances that come into direct contact with the surface of the eye sometimes result in conjunctivitis. It cannot be passed on by merely gazing at someone who has conjunctivitis,” he adds.
According to the doctor, close intimate contact, such as shaking hands with an infected person or sharing towels or pillowcases, can spread conjunctivitis. The virus or bacterium can also be transferred by contacting infected surfaces and then touching your eyes.
Most importantly, the underlying cause of conjunctivitis determines how it spreads, he says, sharing:
Viral Conjunctivitis: Adenoviruses, which also cause the common cold, frequently cause this type of conjunctivitis. Highly infectious viral conjunctivitis can be communicated via direct contact with an infected person's discharge from the eye or by touching objects that have been exposed to the virus before contacting your own eyes.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Bacterial conjunctivitis is a bacterial infection that is typically brought on by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae. Direct contact with infectious eye fluid or contaminated objects can potentially spread this type of conjunctivitis.
Irritant Conjunctivitis: Irritants including smoke, chemicals, or foreign objects can irritate the eyes, leading to irritant conjunctivitis. It is caused by an allergic reaction to the irritant and is not communicable.
Also Read: How Your Eyes Are Affected By Your Daily Diet: Know Role Of 6 Key Nutrients From Expert
Prevention Is Key
Here are some preventative measures to take to protect yourself from conjunctivitis:
- Regularly washing hands with soap and water, especially after touching your face or potentially infected objects or surfaces. Avoid using unwashed hands to touch your mouth, nose, or eyes.
- Try to stay away from close contact with anyone you know who has conjunctivitis until they are no longer contagious. Avoid sharing personal goods with others, such as towels, washcloths, pillows, and makeup, as they can become contaminated and help an infection spread.
- To avoid infection, dispose of used tissues and other disposable objects correctly.
- When using eye drops or ointments that contain medication to treat conjunctivitis, wash your hands both before and after use.
- If someone in your home has conjunctivitis, clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
Bottomline
Conjunctivitis is highly contagious, but does it spread by looking into someone's eyes? No, until and unless you get into close contact with the person. Remember, taking necessary measures, following proper hygiene practices, and avoiding sharing clothes, pillows, and make up can reduce your chances of contracting the infection.
