The sore eyes epidemic sweeping the country is caused by a virus, and there is no curative treatment. However, antibiotics may be used to prevent a bacterial super-infection.
Sore eyes, or epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC), is highly contagious. It can spread rapidly in crowded places or places where people are in close contact with each other, as in schools, hostels, prisons, Army camps, outpatient departments at hospitals, and mass public transport.
The initial symptom is a gritty feeling under the upper lid of one eye, followed by a watery discharge. The lids tend to stick together when closed for sleep. The affected eye can get quite red, and the eyelid may become swollen. A small gland in front of the ear becomes enlarged and tender. In 50 per cent of sore eyes cases, the infection spreads to the other eye.
Those suffering from sore eyes harbour the virus in the eyes, the nose and the throat. The virus spreads through direct contact, through the common use of towels, pillows, washbasins, and also through coughing and sneezing.
To date, no cases of blindness caused by sore eyes have been recorded.
Those who are suffering from sore eyes should:
- Stay at home
- Avoid contact with members of the family
- Avoid using other people’s towels, etc.
- Frequently wash face in warm water.
Measures to avoid getting sore eyes:
- Avoid travelling in air-conditioned cars or buses that you suspect may be carrying passengers infected with sore eyes
- Avoid any physical or close contact with a sore eyes patient
A case of sore eyes may continue for seven days or more. Some patients develop white spots on the cornea, and some may suffer from dry eyes. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor.
Dr. C. R. Seimon,
Consultant Ophthalmologist, Kandy |
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