Conjunctivitis epidemic: thousands infected in Asia

In Asia, the number of cases of conjunctivitis has increased sharply in recent weeks. In Vietnam, India and Pakistan, many schools have been closed to prevent the spread of the disease.

In the Indian state of Punjab, 13,000 cases of conjunctivitis were reported in a single day in September. In total, there were 86,000 this month, and even 400,000 in Pakistan.

The exact cause of this wave of propagation is not yet known. However, the region’s hot and humid climate appears to be a contributing factor.

Adenovirus as a trigger

The current wave of conjunctivitis in Asia appears to be due to a very specific pathogen: Adenovirus. Adenoviruses are also widespread in Germany. They can be transmitted through respiratory droplets and usually cause mild symptoms such as red, itchy, and watery eyes. According to scientists, adenoviruses are responsible for up to 75 percent of detected cases. They are generally very contagious and can cause conjunctivitis as well as conjunctivitis. Eye flu cause. Eye flu is a reportable illness that causes serious symptoms such as fever, headache and vision problems.

How to protect yourself from conjunctivitis

The Federal Center for Health Education (BZgA) recommends the following measures to protect yourself from conjunctivitis:

• Wash your hands: Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and warm water, especially before touching your eyes.
• Keep your distance from sick people: Avoid close contact with people suffering from conjunctivitis.
• Avoid common items: Never use the same towels or pillows as someone with pink eye.

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