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Eye & Vision Disorders
Question #16570
46 days ago
87

eye flu how it spreads - #16570

Kimaya

I am really worried about this eye flu thing that's been going around. A couple of weeks ago, I noticed my eyes itching like crazy, thought it was just allergies but then my friend, who I just hung out with, got the same symptoms. Now I am freaking out! I mean, how does this eye flu even spread? I really have no clue! Is it just from touching your eyes or can it spread through being near someone who has it? I don’t remember if we were too close or anything but we did share a snack... eww right? I heard it can be contagious but how exactly? Do I need to start sanitizing like a mad person or will washing my hands do the trick? Also, can it spread through surfaces like tables, or is it mostly direct contact? I’m honestly lost here. Like, do I need to isolate myself now if my eyes start feeling worse? I've read it could last for a few weeks and I can’t deal with that, plus what if my kids get it? Anyway, any info on eye flu how it spreads would really help! Thanks!

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Doctors’ responses

Eye flu, often referred to as viral conjunctivitis, is usually caused by adenoviruses. It spreads easily from person to person, and it mainly spreads through direct contact with infectious secretions like tears or discharge from the eyes of an infected person. When you touch your eyes, particularly if you have itchy or watery symptoms, and then touch someone else, or an object they might contact, that’s how transmission often occurs. Sharing items like towels, cosmetics, or even snacks, as you mentioned, can facilitate this spread if contaminated with eye secretions. It’s less likely to spread just through casual proximity without direct contact, but coughing or sneezing near someone could potentially spread airborne viral particles, though this is less common. Eye flu can linger on surfaces, so cleaning surfaces with appropriate disinfectants helps reduce risk, though handwashing is your best defense. Regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before touching your face, is crucial. If your eyes are red and itchy, avoid touching them and try using a clean tissue or towel. If you suspect you have viral conjunctivitis, it’s prudent to limit close contact with others — particularly children, because they’re more susceptible — until symptoms subside to prevent spreading the infection. Isolating yourself isn’t strictly necessary unless symptoms are severe, but practicing good hygiene is key. While the condition generally resolves on its own, if symptoms worsen or if vision is affected, seeing an eye care professional would be wise.

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