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Viral conjunctivitis, colloquially known as 'Madras eye', is an infectious illness At present it is spreading very fast in offices during rainy days. Due to shared use of office items, confined environment due to AC and direct contact with each other, office workers are getting this infection easily. About this Dr. Kaushik, MD, Head of Chennai Region, Vasan EyeCare-ASG Eye Hospital has given detailed information.

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The problem of red eyes and constant watery eyes increases to a great extent in India every year during the rainy season. This infection, which earlier seemed to be limited to schools and buses, cars, is now seen spreading widely in offices as well. This disease known as 'Madras Eye' is 'Viral Conjunctivitis'. This disease is mainly caused by 'adenovirus' and spreads very quickly and easily in office environment.

Why are offices becoming the 'hotspot' of this infection?

The office environment is very fertile for the growth and spread of 'adenovirus'. Due to humid and hot weather, this virus spreads very fast in schools, offices and crowded places. It mainly infects one eye first and in just a day or two, the other eye also gets infected.

Certain things in the office favor the growth of this infection:

High-touch surfaces and constant contact: This infection is mainly spread through direct contact. An infected person touches an object or surface in the office after touching their own eyes; The other person then touches the exact same spot and unknowingly touches their own eyes. These include mobile phones, TV remotes, keyboards, elevator buttons, door handles, meeting tables, towels and kitchen utensils.

Air conditioning and confined environment: Central A/C system circulates the same air in the office over and over again, causing dry eyes and increasing the risk of infection manifold. In it, employees spend eight or more consecutive hours together in a closed and confined space. When working in such an environment, getting some fresh air every once in a while can be very beneficial. The virus survives longer due to humidity in the environment. In humid air, viruses can remain active for long periods on shared, touched surfaces, objects. Additionally, due to having to travel by crowded public transport (local, bus, etc.) during rainy days, the risk of employees being exposed to this infection before reaching the office increases.

'Viral Conjunctivitis' Preventive Measures:

Isolate yourself at the first sign: even if one eye is red, watery or stinging, 'work from home' for a few days. This is the most effective way to prevent the spread of infection.

Avoid touching the face: especially avoid touching the eyes at all; Because this is the main way that the virus directly reaches the eyes through infected hands.

Wash your hands frequently: Don't forget to wash or sanitize your hands after using shared office equipment, elevator buttons or washrooms.

Do not share personal items: Do not share personal items such as towels, glasses, eye drops or cosmetics with anyone, even for a short time.

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Sanitize Shared Surfaces Regularly, Continually: When this infection is prevalent in the office, regularly disinfect frequently used areas such as keyboards, phones, and door handles.

Avoid home or approximate treatment: Using home remedies or leftover antibiotic drops on your own can make this viral infection more serious; Consult a doctor immediately if symptoms persist or worsen for more than a few days.