Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS)

Udupi, Dec 16: Instructions have been given to the public to take precautionary measures as conjunctivitis is on the rise among school children in the undivided Dakshina Kannada district.

This infection is caused by microbes. Symptoms include inflammation of sclera and inside the eye lashes. In addition, the eyes turn red or pink. This is a very contagious disease. In Udupi, 60 cases were reported in November, while in December so far 15 cases have come to light. The figures for Kundapur are 80 and 117 for the months of November and December respectively. Karkala reported 124 cases of red eyes in November and in December so far, 395 cases have come to light.

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The cases of Madras eye is increasing among students of schools and colleges. Treatment is available at all primary health care centres of the district. Generally this gets cured within a week. It is better for the infected people to wear goggles while moving around in public places. Cleanliness should be given priority according to Udupi district surveillance officer Dr Nagaratna.

Conjunctivitis occurs every year in some areas. It can be easily cured by applying eye drops. Infected people should not rub their eyes.