Indore, Nov 20: With the onset of winter, the possibilities of spread of conjunctivitis has increased. People need to take preventive measures to avoid the disease, said Dr Neeraj Manchanda, consultant ophthalmologist, Sir GangaRam hospital, New Delhi in a statement issued here. He said Conjunctivitis is commonly seen to surface with the onset of winter season. Though, the disease is infectious in nature, it can be prevented with some very simple measures like hand washing, which is the surest way to stay clean and uninfected.

Conjunctivitis commonly called `red-eye' and `Madras eye' in India, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, most commonly due to an allergic reaction or an infection. It causes eye irritation, blurry vision, swollen eyes and eyelids. So, if anybody acquires any such symptoms, immediately consult a doctor and avoid going in public places, says Dr Manchanda adding that doctors can identify the difference with a ten minute test and prescribe the proper antibiotic for the respective bacterial type. After 24 hours of medication, one can get back to work and life as usual with a little bit of caution, he said.

Dr A K Grover, senior consultant ophthalmologist, Sir Gangaram hospital, New Delhi said doctors and health advocates unanimously say that prevention and quick action are the best defense to this irritating disease of the eye. Teach yourself good hand hygiene. Washing hand frequently can help prevent pink eye. On tope of that, avoiding sharing of community-type items like towels, make-up and eye droppers, he further informed