Enterovirus infection prevalent in viral conjunctivitis

KATHMANDU, Aug 22: Enterovirus infection is high in the cases of viral conjunctivitis lately seen in the country.

Out of the 10 sample tests conducted at the National Public Health Laboratory, 80 percent were of the cases of enterovirus infection, according to laboratory information officer, Krishna Prasad Jaisi. The samples were collected from the Patan Hospital.

The laboratory has urged the all seven provinces to collect virus samples and send them to it for the test.  Jaisi said that Nepal Netra Jyoti Sangh has been asked to provide 150 samples.

In the previous sample tests at the laboratory, the cases of adenovirus were noticeable.

Red and itchy eyes, tearing or discharge of pus or mucus, red and swollen eyelids, problems to see in sunlight are among the symptoms of this viral eye infection.

Everyone is medically advised to refrain from touching eyes unnecessarily, and if necessary, it is recommended to first wash hands with soap and water. In case of infection, it is recommended to employ cold compress by closing eyelids, to take plenty of water and nutritious food, to wear sunglasses during exposure to alleviate conjunctivitis discomforts and to not rub eyes.

It is also essential to ensure that belongings of individuals who are infected are thoroughly sanitized before being used by others.

(RSS)