Gujranwala, a city in Pakistan, is grappling with a surge in conjunctivitis cases, with more than a hundred patients flocking to government hospitals daily due to viral infections.
Records from the local medical college reveal that over four and a half thousand cases of conjunctivitis have been reported in the past ten days, indicating a concerning outbreak.
The epidemic has spread its grip across Gujranwala, affecting residents in areas like Wazirabad, Nowshera Varkan, Kamonki, and Gakhar.
Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness, inflammation, and painful eyes, causing discomfort and distress to those affected.
One patient shared their harrowing experience, stating, “I came back from a trip, and suddenly one eye got damaged, and then the other eye also got damaged. There is an irritation that’s hard to bear.”
Ophthalmologist Professor Dr. Irfan Qayyum shed light on the situation, explaining, “Conjunctivitis is a viral infection that can easily spread to others. It’s crucial to exercise caution, especially in using personal items that come into contact with the eyes.”
Dr. Qayyum emphasized the importance of preventive measures to curb the rapid spread of the epidemic, stating, “We need to be careful with each other and also use our personal items used in daily life responsibly.”
The situation in Gujranwala calls for heightened awareness and adherence to eye hygiene practices to mitigate the impact of this conjunctivitis outbreak.
