Daily Current Affairs : 31-July-2023

In recent news, India has been facing an increase in cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘pink eye’, due to persistent rain in several parts of the country. Conjunctivitis is a condition that affects the thin, transparent layer of tissue called the conjunctiva, which lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. This essay explores the causes, symptoms, and treatment of conjunctivitis, shedding light on the importance of proper management to prevent its spread and alleviate discomfort.

Conjunctivitis: Understanding the Condition

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, and it can be caused by various factors. There are three main types of conjunctivitis:

  1. Viral Conjunctivitis
    • Caused by different viruses, such as adenoviruses.
    • Highly contagious and can lead to large outbreaks depending on the virus.
    • Common symptoms include redness, watery discharge, and eye discomfort.
    • Viral conjunctivitis can spread through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated surfaces, or respiratory droplets.
  2. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
    • Caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
    • Also highly contagious and easily spreads from person to person, especially among children.
    • Symptoms include redness, sticky discharge (pus), and crusting of the eyelids.
    • It is crucial to seek medical attention for bacterial conjunctivitis as it may require antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
  3. Allergic Conjunctivitis
    • This type of conjunctivitis is a result of the body’s reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain medicines, or cosmetics.
    • Not contagious and typically affects both eyes.
    • Common symptoms include redness, itching, and excessive tearing.
Prevention and Treatment

Preventing the spread of conjunctivitis is essential to control its prevalence. Here are some preventive measures:

  • Good Hygiene Practices
    • Wash hands frequently, especially after touching the eyes or face.
    • Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes with unwashed hands.
    • Use clean tissues or handkerchiefs while wiping or blowing the nose.
  • Avoid Sharing Personal Items
    • Refrain from sharing towels, eye makeup, contact lenses, or eye drops with others.
    • Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces and objects regularly.
Managing Conjunctivitis Symptoms

In most cases, conjunctivitis clears up on its own without specific treatment. However, managing the symptoms can help alleviate discomfort and speed up recovery:

  • Applying Warm Compress
    • Placing a clean, warm compress over the affected eye can reduce redness and swelling.
    • Remember to use a separate compress for each eye to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Artificial Tears
    • Over-the-counter artificial tears can help relieve dryness and discomfort in the eyes.
  • Avoiding Contact Lenses
    • Individuals who wear contact lenses should refrain from using them until the infection clears.
Seeking Medical Advice

It is crucial to seek medical guidance, especially for bacterial conjunctivitis. A doctor can accurately diagnose the type of conjunctivitis and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include:

  • Antibiotic Eye Drops or Ointment
    • Bacterial conjunctivitis often requires antibiotic treatment to eliminate the infection.
  • Antiviral Medications
    • In the case of severe viral conjunctivitis, antiviral medications may be prescribed.
  • Allergy Medications
    • For allergic conjunctivitis, allergy medications can help alleviate symptoms.

Important Points:

Rising Cases of Conjunctivitis in India

  • Due to persistent rain in several parts of the country.
  • Also known as ‘pink eye’.

Understanding Conjunctivitis

  • Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent tissue lining the inner surface of the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye.
  • Three main types: Viral, Bacterial, and Allergic Conjunctivitis.

Causes of Conjunctivitis

  • Viral Conjunctivitis
    • Caused by different viruses, such as adenoviruses.
    • Highly contagious and can lead to large outbreaks.
  • Bacterial Conjunctivitis
    • Caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
    • Highly contagious, especially among children.
  • Allergic Conjunctivitis
    • Result of the body’s reaction to allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, medicines, or cosmetics.
    • Not contagious and usually affects both eyes.

Prevention and Management

  • Good Hygiene Practices
    • Wash hands frequently and avoid touching the eyes with unwashed hands.
    • Use separate tissues for wiping each eye.
  • Avoid Sharing Personal Items
    • Refrain from sharing towels, eye makeup, contact lenses, or eye drops.

Managing Conjunctivitis Symptoms

  • Apply warm compress to reduce redness and swelling.
  • Use over-the-counter artificial tears for relief from dryness and discomfort.
  • Avoid using contact lenses until the infection clears.

Seeking Medical Advice

  • Doctors’ guidance is essential, especially for bacterial conjunctivitis.
  • Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or antiviral medications, can prevent complications and promote faster recovery.
Why In News

As persistent rain continues to drench several parts of India, there has been a notable surge in cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘pink eye.’ The damp and humid conditions have created an environment conducive to the spread of this eye infection, requiring increased vigilance and preventive measures in affected regions.

MCQs about Conjunctivitis Surge in India

  1. What is conjunctivitis?
    A. An infection of the retina
    B. Inflammation or infection of the cornea
    C. Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva
    D. An eye condition caused by excessive exposure to sunlight
    Correct Answer: C. Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva
    Explanation: Conjunctivitis is a condition that affects the thin, transparent layer of tissue called the conjunctiva, which lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye.
  2. Which type of conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can lead to large outbreaks?
    A. Allergic Conjunctivitis
    B. Bacterial Conjunctivitis
    C. Viral Conjunctivitis
    D. Non-contagious Conjunctivitis
    Correct Answer: C. Viral Conjunctivitis
    Explanation: Viral conjunctivitis is caused by different viruses, such as adenoviruses, and is highly contagious, often leading to large outbreaks.
  3. How can conjunctivitis be prevented from spreading?
    A. Avoiding contact with anyone showing symptoms of conjunctivitis
    B. Frequent washing of hands and avoiding touching the eyes with unwashed hands
    C. Staying indoors during rainy seasons
    D. Using over-the-counter antibiotics
    Correct Answer: B. Frequent washing of hands and avoiding touching the eyes with unwashed hands
    Explanation: Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly, can help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis. Avoiding contact with infected individuals and sharing personal items also aids in prevention.
  4. When should medical advice be sought for conjunctivitis?
    A. Only for severe cases of conjunctivitis
    B. For all types of conjunctivitis, except allergic conjunctivitis
    C. Only for bacterial conjunctivitis
    D. For all cases of conjunctivitis, especially bacterial conjunctivitis
    Correct Answer: D. For all cases of conjunctivitis, especially bacterial conjunctivitis
    Explanation: Seeking medical advice is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, especially for bacterial conjunctivitis, as it may require antibiotics to prevent complications and promote faster recovery.

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