Doctors in Coimbatore have issued an alert as approximately 10 patients daily are reporting to government hospitals for treatment of Madras Eye, a viral eye infection spreading rapidly due to rising temperatures in the city.
Coimbatore: Medical professionals in Coimbatore have sounded an alert following a sharp increase in Madras Eye cases, with government hospitals receiving an average of 10 patients daily seeking treatment for the highly contagious viral infection.
Madras Eye, medically known as viral conjunctivitis, is caused by adenovirus infection affecting the conjunctiva—the membrane connecting the eyelid and eyeball. The infection manifests through distinct symptoms including redness of eyes, pain, excessive watering, and eyelids sticking together, particularly after sleep.
Doctors warn that in the initial stages, the infection affects only the white portion of the eye. However, if left untreated or medical attention is delayed, it can progress to cause corneal ulcers, potentially leading to serious complications. The infection may also be accompanied by fever, sore throat, and ear pain lasting up to a week.
The recent spike in cases has been attributed to the onset of intense summer heat in the region. Health experts at Coimbatore Government Hospital confirm that they are treating approximately 10 new cases every day, with projections indicating a possible increase in the coming weeks.
Dr. Saravanan, an ophthalmologist, clarified several misconceptions about the disease transmission. "Madras Eye does not spread by directly looking at an infected person's eyes. The virus transmits only through contact with objects used by infected individuals," he explained.
He emphasized crucial preventive measures: "Eye drops prescribed for one patient should never be shared with others. If one eye is infected, do not use the same dropper for both eyes. The common saying 'prevention is better than cure' does not apply to Madras Eye—once contracted, immediate treatment is essential."
Medical authorities advise the public to maintain strict hygiene practices, avoid touching eyes with unwashed hands, refrain from sharing towels or handkerchiefs, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. With summer temperatures rising, doctors expect the infection rate to climb further in the coming weeks.
Madras Eye, medically known as viral conjunctivitis, is caused by adenovirus infection affecting the conjunctiva—the membrane connecting the eyelid and eyeball. The infection manifests through distinct symptoms including redness of eyes, pain, excessive watering, and eyelids sticking together, particularly after sleep.
Doctors warn that in the initial stages, the infection affects only the white portion of the eye. However, if left untreated or medical attention is delayed, it can progress to cause corneal ulcers, potentially leading to serious complications. The infection may also be accompanied by fever, sore throat, and ear pain lasting up to a week.
The recent spike in cases has been attributed to the onset of intense summer heat in the region. Health experts at Coimbatore Government Hospital confirm that they are treating approximately 10 new cases every day, with projections indicating a possible increase in the coming weeks.
Dr. Saravanan, an ophthalmologist, clarified several misconceptions about the disease transmission. "Madras Eye does not spread by directly looking at an infected person's eyes. The virus transmits only through contact with objects used by infected individuals," he explained.
He emphasized crucial preventive measures: "Eye drops prescribed for one patient should never be shared with others. If one eye is infected, do not use the same dropper for both eyes. The common saying 'prevention is better than cure' does not apply to Madras Eye—once contracted, immediate treatment is essential."
Medical authorities advise the public to maintain strict hygiene practices, avoid touching eyes with unwashed hands, refrain from sharing towels or handkerchiefs, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear. With summer temperatures rising, doctors expect the infection rate to climb further in the coming weeks.