SHILLONG/GUWAHATI: A wave of conjunctivitis, colloquially known as “pink eye”, has been sweeping across regions of Assam and Meghalaya, raising concerns among health professionals and the general public.
Reports from East Khasi Hills confirm that Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is witnessing a severe surge in the number of eye flu cases. Speaking to a local online news portal, East Khasi Hills District Medical Health Officer (DMHO), Dr. Adrena Lyngdoh, confirmed the surge, noting that at least 20 cases have already been recorded at the Mawlai-Mawroh PHC alone.
The West Khasi Hills district of the state has also witnessed the disease’s imprint, with roughly 20 cases reported at the Nongstoiñ Civil Hospital. Speaking to the portal, Lyngdoh shared that the authorities have been proactive in addressing the challenge. “We’ve disseminated letters to all pertinent facilities and organisations to elevate awareness and instil preventive measures,” she was quoted as saying.
Meanwhile, the disease has also gripped neighbouring Assam and the mounting cases have not only raised alarms within the health community but also in the educational domain. As a precautionary measure, multiple schools and educational institutes have been temporarily shut to prevent the contagion from spreading.
In Guwahati, the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) has been witnessing an unprecedented surge in the number of eye flu patients in the last couple of days. According to the local press, the medical facility is registering over 30 cases every day, creating a challenge for the healthcare system to manage the crisis effectively.
According to experts, the disease, notorious for its infectious nature, can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens. In a bid to curb the spread and raise awareness, the National Health Mission has issued a comprehensive advisory. Among the recommended measures are maintaining hygiene, not sharing personal items like towels, contact lenses, or eye makeup, and avoiding public places like schools or offices for up to a week if infected.
