Eye flu is a highly infectious Russian disease that attacks conjunctiva, caused by viruses known as adenoviruses.
Professor Klaus Korseven, Director of the Eye Clinic at the University of Cologne, explained that the pathogens are largely transmitted through handshaking, and are also spread on door handles or handrails (lined iron columns surrounding the stairs).
If a healthy person touches these surfaces and rub their eyes, the infection becomes infected, and the difference remains if the symptoms of conjunctivitis or eye flu are in the hands of the ophthalmologist.
Redness and itching
The German ophthalmologist Ludger Vollering explained that the symptoms of eye flu are redness, itching, increased tear secretions and enlarged lymph nodes in the ear. The patient may also feel the presence of sand grains in the eye, and sensitivity to light, and sometimes the eyelid swollen and hanging.
The eyesight is affected by eye flu for a long time, as the inflammation affects the cornea as well as the conjunctiva. Typically, a person recovers from eye flu on its own after about two to four weeks. However, they may in some cases leave scars on the cornea that can reduce vision in the long run.
To determine if there are adenoviruses in the eye secretions, the doctor first takes a sample using a cotton swab, then the eye secretion cells are analyzed in the laboratory. Eye flu can also be detected through a blood test.
No reliable treatment has yet been available for this viral infection, and antibiotics are not a solution, given that they are a viral infection, not a bacterial one.
Anti-inflammatory drops
Anti-inflammatory medications are used, such as eye drops, which contain the active substance "cyclosporine". If the eyes dry out, other eye drops or eye ointments can provide a suitable liquid layer.
And to prevent eye flu infection, it is recommended to follow the rules of general hygiene, as the pathogens are spread on tables or keyboards, towels, pillows and household appliances. For this purpose, experts advise washing hands regularly with soap.