📌 What is Viral Conjunctivitis?
Viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as “Eye Flu” or “Pink Eye”, conjunctiva (आंख की झिल्ली) का एक infection है, जो ज़्यादातर Adenovirus के कारण होता है। यह सबसे common type of conjunctivitis है और बहुत तेजी से फैलता है।
⚠️ Types of Viral Conjunctivitis
Non-specific acute follicular conjunctivitis (सबसे common)
Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC)👉 Severe form, highly contagious, outbreaks (epidemics) में फैलता है
🔬 Causes (Etiology)
मुख्य कारण: for viral conjunctivitis
Adenovirus (most common)
HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus)
VZV (Varicella Zoster Virus)
Measles, Zika, HIV (rare cases)
🔄 Transmission (कैसे फैलता है?) For viral conjunctivitis
Direct contact (हाथ मिलाना)
Contaminated water (swimming pools)
Infected person की चीजें (towel, pillow)
Feco-oral route
Symptoms
Clinical Signs
Conjunctival congestion (redness)
Chemosis (swelling)
Subconjunctival hemorrhage (sometimes)
Preauricular lymphadenopathy
Diagnosis
Mostly clinical diagnosis
Slit lamp exam shows follicles
Fluorescein staining for keratitisPCR / viral testing in recurrent or severe cases
Treatment of Viral Conjunctivitis
General PrecautionsWash hands frequently (at least 20 seconds)
Avoid touching or rubbing eyes
Do not share personal items
Stop contact lens use temporarily
Use sunglasses for comfort
Symptomatic Relief
Cold compress 2–3 times daily
Artificial tears for dryness
Medications for viral conjunctivitis
1. Antihistamine / Decongestant Drops
Naphazoline + Pheniramine
1–2 drops, 3–4 times daily
2. Artificial Tears
Tear Plus / Systane
1 drop, 5–6 times daily
3. If Secondary Bacterial Infection Suspected
Tobramycin 0.3% eye drops
1–2 drops every 4–6 hours
OR
Moxifloxacin 0.5% eye drops
1 drop 2–3 times daily
Important Points
Viral conjunctivitis is self-limiting (1–3 weeks)
Antibiotics are not routinely required
Steroid eye drops should be avoided unless prescribed by an ophthalmologist
Prevention of Viral Conjunctivitis
Viral conjunctivitis spreads very quickly, especially in schools, hospitals, offices and crowded places. Patients should avoid close contact with others during the active phase of infection. Hand hygiene is the most important preventive measure. Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after touching the face or eyes.
Do not share towels, handkerchiefs, pillows, eye cosmetics, spectacles or contact lenses. Used tissues should be disposed of properly.
Children with active eye discharge should avoid school until symptoms improve.
Home Care
AdviceApply cold compress gently over closed eyelids for 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times daily. Artificial tears can be used to reduce dryness, irritation and foreign body sensation. Avoid rubbing the eyes because rubbing increases irritation and may spread infection to the other eye.
Patients using contact lenses should stop using them until complete recovery. Old contact lenses and lens solution should be discarded to prevent reinfection.Warning SignsConsult an eye specialist immediately if there is severe eye pain, decreased vision, marked photophobia, corneal opacity, trauma history, contact lens-related infection or symptoms persisting beyond 2–3 weeks.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for health awareness and educational purpose only. Treatment should be taken after consultation with a qualified doctor or ophthalmologist.
When to Consult a Doctor
Severe eye pain
Decreased vision
Photophobia
Symptoms not improving
Conclusion
Viral conjunctivitis is a common but highly contagious eye infection. Proper hygiene and supportive treatment help in faster recovery and prevent spread.