Pink eye virus surges in twin cities after rains

ISLAMABAD: An outbreak of conjunctivitis struck hundreds of residents of twin cities, with children, women, and elderly persons being the most affected.

Twin Cities hospitals saw an upsurge in patients, while local demand for rose water and medicines has also gone up.

In the last three days, more than two thousand patients have come to Holy Family Hospital, Benazir Bhutto General Hospital, and District Headquarters Hospital for treatment. Private clinics and hospitals also saw an increase in cases.

Deputy M.D. Inayat added that this is the second outbreak of conjunctivitis in the city in the first nine months of the year.

Health authorities are urging locals to take precautions, such as rinsing eyes with clean water, using shaded glasses, placing small ice cubes on the eyes for relief, and seeking immediate medical care in case of pain.

Conjunctivitis is also called pink eye, which leads to redness, irritation, and watery eyes. It is most commonly viral and does not need to be treated. The patient can suffer from discomfort, light sensitivity, and cold or flu-like symptoms at times.

Health officials recommend that residents wear protective glasses, follow good hygiene, and avoid contact between clothes or personal belongings and infected eyes to prevent infection spread.