Jamshedpur grapples with the Eye Flu virus outbreak, affecting whole families. Health Department gears up as cases rise to 800.
JAMSHEDPUR – The city of Jamshedpur is currently in the grip of the Eye Flu virus. The illness has become a significant health challenge, as it’s spreading rapidly within families through cross-infection. As the number of Eye Flu patients continues to increase, the health department is on high alert.
MGM Hospital, a primary care center, is receiving around 50 to 60 patients daily, raising concerns. To accommodate the growing demand, the hospital has even floated a tender for eye drops.
The virus has so far affected around 800 individuals, with both children and adults succumbing to the infection. Such figures have caused significant alarm among the city’s residents.
The health department has called a meeting to devise a strategy to curb the rapid spread.
Identifying the Eye Flu Virus
The Eye Flu virus, primarily identified by symptoms such as red eyes, swelling, and a stinging sensation, is contagious and can last for 3 to 5 days. Contrary to popular belief, the virus doesn’t spread by sight but by touch.
.The rapid spread among family members often starts from a single infected individual touching communal items such as mobile phones, and others subsequently coming into contact with their eyes.
Precautionary Measures
To avoid getting infected, citizens are advised to wear glasses, avoid touching their eyes with dirty hands, wash eyes with cold water frequently, and keep a safe distance from those infected.
Although the virus naturally subsides within a few days, those infected for more than 3 to 4 days are advised to seek medical help. Medical professionals strongly discourage self-medication and recommend using prescribed eye drops only.
Expert Opinions and Patient Experience
Eye specialist Dr. Surendra Prasad advises those infected to self-isolate at home for 3 days to avoid spreading the virus.
MGM Hospital Superintendent, Vinay Jha, echoes this sentiment and urges the public not to panic, while taking necessary precautions to protect themselves and others.
Patients like Brijesh Kumar share their experiences, describing symptoms like eye irritation and watering, and the relief provided by prescribed eye drops.
