Conjunctivitis on the rise in Tamil Nadu; close to 4,500 people affected every day

Similar to 10 government eye hospitals in Chennai, he said, there are around 90 hospitals across the state. Salem and Dharmapuri are among the districts that have higher numbers of cases.

“Since the onset of the monsoon, close to 1.5 lakh people have been treated for conjunctivitis. None of those infected patients suffered any vision loss,” the minister said.

Redness in eyes, swelling, watery eyes, itchiness and tearing in the eye are some of the symptoms of this virus infection, the minister said. Those infected should isolate themselves and avoid venturing outside since the infection is contagious, he added.

Those infected should also avoid rubbing or touching their eyes with hands and self-medication. “People should consult a doctor and based on his suggestion, they should undergo required treatment. Once they get cured in three or four days, medicines like eyedrops should be disposed of and not be used by other family members if they get infected,” the minister said.

The health department is planning to spread more awareness on the infection among the public by placing placards in the eye hospitals across the state, the minister said.

“People need not panic but should stay safe. There is enough stock of medicines in all government hospitals and the Tamil Nadu Medical Service Corporation warehouses. So there is no need to worry. We have also instructed the hospitals to make arrangements to maintain social-distancing norms to prevent any spread,” he said.