ISLAMABAD: Health experts on Friday stressed the importance of being aware of viral infections, especially conjunctivitis or pink eye during changing weather. Prof Tipu Sultan MD Children Hospital told a private news channel that constant changes in weather conditions and rapid fluctuations in temperature between day and night can have serious health consequences. He explained that awareness of the prevention of viral infections is necessary to protect public health. Fluctuations in temperature, humidity and wind create an ideal breeding ground for viruses and increase the risk of outbreaks, he added. Respiratory infections, conjunctivitis (pink eye) and gastrointestinal viral infections are among the most common viral infections that spread rapidly during this time, he said. He emphasized that by taking proactive steps and being aware, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of contracting viral infections in changing weather conditions. Another senior ophthalmologist, Dr. Prof Junaid, also sounded the alarm, linking the spread of highly contagious eye diseases to worsening weather conditions. He said changing weather patterns have significantly worsened air quality and created an ideal environment for eye infections to develop. Ophthalmologists also emphasize the essential role of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of eye diseases. “Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes is a surefire way to contract the infection,” warns Dr. “Poor hand hygiene contributes significantly to the spread of eye diseases,” he mentioned. The Dr also warned against the increase in dengue and malaria cases in various cities and added that citizens should be aware and take precautionary measures and clean the surroundings where water is standing.
