Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Aug 12: The ‘Madras Eye’ infection, which was seen across the state, has entered coastal districts also. People are arriving in large numbers to eye hospitals across the district in the past week. Ophthalmologists say that it is mostly affecting youth.

The infection is mostly seen in college students who are residing in hostels. In addition, the infection is seen in school going children also. Though the infection is not severe, it is spreading faster according to experts. Inclement weather is the cause says medical experts.

Madras Eye infection generally occurs during the monsoon. That too during sporadic rain period. When slight chill also mingles with the on and off rain, it makes way for this special virus.

In private hospitals, out of 150 patients, 40 to 60 are reporting with red eye disease. Doctors advise not to put coriander water or tulsi water as it will damage the eye further. That can be controlled by anti-inflammatory drops according to ophthalmologist Dr Shripati Kamath.

The infected eye should not be touched. It should be washed several times with cold water. The towel, hand kerchief, bed and pillow used by the infected person should be kept separately.

Dr Kishore Kumar, health officer of Dakshina Kannada district said, “This is a viral infection which is more in Dakshina Kannada now along with malaria and dengue. As soon as the infection occurs, one should meet an eye doctor.”

According to doctors, it is best to drink lots of water to reduce the infection in addition to having green vegetables and fresh fruits. Keeping sliced cucumber on the eye also gives relief.