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Eye & Vision Disorders
Question #12289
46 days ago
80

precautions in eye flu - #12289

Aisha

I am really worried about this eye flu thing going around because I've been feeling strange lately. Like, my eyes are kinda itchy and watery, and there's this weird redness that won't go away. A friend mentioned it might be eye flu, but I'm not really sure what that even means? I don’t wanna freak out but there’s so much talk about precautions in eye flu and I’m wondering if I'm doing enough. I went to the doctor last week and they said to keep my hands clean and avoid touching my face, but I'm curious if there’s more precautions in eye flu that I should know about. I’ve been using a warm compress, but the itchiness is driving me crazy! Do I need to avoid certain places or, like, stop hanging out with people? Also, how long does this typically last? I keep thinking if these precautions in eye flu really work or if it’s just something people say. I mean, can washing my hands really make a difference? Anyway, any tips would help because this is super annoying and I wanna make sure it doesn't get worse!

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Doctors’ responses

Eye flu, often referred to as viral conjunctivitis, is usually caused by adenovirus and is highly contagious, so the precautions you’ve taken are definitely on the right track. Keeping your hands clean and avoiding eye contact are vital since the virus spreads through direct or indirect contact. To address those itchy and watery eyes, you could continue with warm compresses—just make sure whatever cloth you use is clean each time. Using lubricating eye drops, sometimes known as artificial tears, can also help with discomfort. Avoid sharing personal items like towels, pillows, or makeup, which can further spread the virus. As for public spaces, while you don’t need to stop seeing people entirely, it’s wise to minimize close contact, especially in crowded places, until your symptoms clear up.

This type of eye infection usually clears up in about one to two weeks without treatment. If your symptoms persist, or if you notice severe pain, sensitivity to light, or vision loss, you should seek help from an eye care professional as these might be signs of something more serious. And yes, regular handwashing can make a significant difference in preventing transmission—it’s one of the simplest yet most effective measures. In the meantime, try to practice good hygiene by washing your pillowcases frequently and disinfecting commonly-touched surfaces. Although it’s indeed annoying, by sticking to these precautions, you’re mitigating the spread and aiding your recovery.

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