Annually, approximately 6 million people globally are affected by conjunctivitis, which is  commonly known as eye flu. 

This widespread eye condition impacts individuals of all ages and it is the result of the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin and transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye and inside surface of the eyelids. 

Eye flu can be caused by various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or exposure to environmental irritants. This condition may be bothersome for most people, but it can be resolved with proper care and treatment.

In this blog, we’ll address your queries about how eye flu spreads and clarify common misconceptions associated with it.

The best part? The advice given in this blog is especially recommended by expert ophthalmologists of Prasad Netralaya Hospital.

Types of Eye Flu:

Alt text: how eye flu spreads

1. Viral Conjunctivitis: 

Cause: Viral Conjunctivitis is usually caused by viruses like adenoviruses, but can also come from colds or herpes simplex.

Symptoms: The symptoms include red, itchy eyes with watery discharge. It spreads easily through contact or contaminated surfaces.

Treatment: It doesn’t require any complex treatment as it often clears up on its own. However, to speed up the recovery process, you can consider using warm compresses and artificial tears for relief.

2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis: 

Cause: Bacterial Conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus.

Symptoms: The symptoms include red eyes with yellow or green pus and swollen eyelids. It often spreads when you come in contact with infected fluids.

Treatment: To cure this type of conjunctivitis, you require antibiotic eye drops or ointments. It’s necessary to complete the full treatment to get rid of the infection.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis: 

Cause: Allergic Conjunctivitis is triggered by allergens such as, pollen, dust, or pet dander.

Symptoms: The symptoms are red, itchy, and watery eyes, often with other allergy symptoms. Also, remember that this type of eye flu is not contagious. 

Treatment: Use antihistamine eye drops or oral antihistamines, and avoid allergens at any cost. Applying a cold compress can also be immensely helpful in soothing your eyes.

4. Chemical Conjunctivitis: 

Cause: Chemical Conjunctivitis is caused by exposure to substances and irritants like smoke or chemicals.

Symptoms: The symptoms include redness, burning sensation, and watery eyes. 

Treatment: Rinse your eyes with clean water or saline, if the condition gets severe, please make sure to see a healthcare professional if needed.

5. Chlamydial Conjunctivitis: 

Cause: Chlamydial Conjunctivitis, as the name itself suggests, is caused by the Chlamydia bacteria.

Symptoms: The symptoms are, red eyes with discharge and swelling. It’s a sexually transmitted infection and may lead to serious issues if not treated properly.

Treatment: The treatment for this requires antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. Even the partner should be treated to prevent reinfection in the future.

Are your symptoms persisting despite getting appropriate treatment? Consult the experienced eye specialists at Prasad Netralaya Hospital today!

Other causes of Eye Flu are as follows: 

Contact Lens Wear: Poor hygiene with contact lenses can lead to eye infections like the eye flu. Make sure to thoroughly clean your contact lenses and disinfect them whenever required. Also, consider replacing contact lenses regularly to prevent conjunctivitis.

Newborn Conjunctivitis: 

This type of infection is often caused by infections acquired during delivery. In such a case, immediate medical attention is crucial to protect the baby’s vision.

How can you treat Eye Flu? 

• Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses can help soothe eye strain and discomfort, if any.
• Avoid Rubbing: Avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can worsen conjunctivitis symptoms.
• Steer Clear of Irritants: Stay away from smoke, dust, and other irritants that may make the symptoms worse.
• Get Adequate Rest: Get ample rest and sleep to support your immune system in fighting the infection.
• Maintain Hygiene: Keep up with good hygiene practices at home to prevent spreading the infection to others.

You might also be interested in reading: What You Need To Know About Refractive Errors

All you need to know about “How Eye Flu spreads”:

Pink eye or Eye flu is caused by viruses and bacteria, and spreads easily in the following ways:

• Close Contact: Shaking hands or touching someone who is infected with eye flu can cause you to catch this infection too. 
• Airborne Droplets: Inhaling droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person can spread the infection.
• Contaminated Surfaces: Touching objects with germs and then touching your eyes without washing your hands can lead to infection.

Does Eye Flu spread by merely looking? 

No, you can’t catch eye flu just by looking at someone. This is a common misconception among a lot of people even today. Eye flu can only spread through direct or indirect contact with the virus or bacteria. The best way to prevent it is by maintaining good hygiene, like washing your hands and avoiding touching your face, can help prevent it.

Eye Flu Unveiled: Which clinic to get in touch with?

In conclusion, eye flu spreads through various means depending on what kind of eye flue you are infected with! And of course it does spread by merely looking at someone, rather through direct contact with infected surfaces or secretions

If your symptoms persist or if you have any concerns about your eye health, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional care. The expert ophthalmologists at Prasad Netralaya are here to provide you with the best treatment and advice for all your eye care needs.

Ready for a clearer vision? Call us at 0824-4276565 or 9513586565 (Mangalore branch) to schedule your consultation or click here to book your appointment at your preferred branch. 

Your eyes deserve the best care!

Click here and discover how smoking impacts your eyes in ways you never imagined!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

1. Does eye flu spread by looking?

No, eye flu can’t simply spread by looking at someone because there is no possible way for it to travel through air particles. Instead,  it spreads through direct contact with infected surfaces or secretions.

2. Can we use phones during eye flu?
Yes you can use phones during eye flu! But make sure to practice good hygiene by cleaning your phone regularly and avoiding touching your eyes with unwashed hands.

3. How to protect eyes from eye flu?
Follow good hygiene: wash hands frequently, avoid sharing your personal eye care products with anyone and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated.

4. Can I wear contact lenses during eye flu?

It’s best to avoid contact lenses while you have eye flu to prevent worsening the condition. Switch to wearing glasses until you fully recover. 

5. Is eye flu contagious?

Yes, eye flu is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact, shared items, or contaminated surfaces.

6. How long does eye flu last?

Eye flu usually lasts upto 1 or 2 weeks. However, it entirely depends on the cause and treatment. Most cases improve with proper care.