Being aware of common eye infections during monsoons and taking preventative measures can help keep your child's eyes healthy and infection-free.

Rains not only provide relief from the heat but also create a fertile environment for various infections including eye infections. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their weakened immune systems and tendency to play outdoors. The increasing presence of bacteria, viruses and allergens in the environment poses a significant threat to eye health. Awareness and preventative measures about common eye infections this season can help keep your child's eyes healthy and infection-free. Dr. Rasika Khedkar, Senior Consultant, Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals spoke to India.com and shared 5 common eye ailments during monsoons and effective strategies to prevent them.

5 Common Eye Infections for Kids in Monsoon

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye): This highly contagious eye infection is more common during monsoons due to increased humidity and exposure to contaminated water. Symptoms include redness, itching and discharge from the eyes. Prevention of conjunctivitis includes maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding sharing personal items such as towels and eye makeup, and frequent hand washing.
• Styes: These are painful, pus-filled lumps on the edge of the eyelid, often caused by a bacterial infection. To prevent styes, one should refrain from rubbing the eyes with unclean hands and ensure proper hygiene.
• Fungal eye infections: Fungal infections can increase due to the proliferation of fungi in humid conditions during monsoons. Symptoms may include pain, redness, blurred vision, and discharge. Preventing fungal infections includes keeping your eyes dry and clean, using antifungal medications as prescribed by your doctor, and wearing protective glasses during the rainy season.
• Allergic reactions: Pollen and mold spores thrive in humid climates, causing allergic conjunctivitis. Symptoms include red, itchy, and watery eyes. To combat this, avoid going outside in high pollen conditions, use allergy-reducing eye drops, and keep windows closed during high pollen periods.
• Corneal ulcers: These are open sores on the cornea that can cause severe pain and blurred vision, often caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. Prevention includes using antibacterial or antifungal treatments and wearing protective eyewear during heavy rain.

Monsoon Eye Care Tips

• Personal hygiene: Wash your hands regularly before touching your eyes to avoid infection.
• Protective Glasses: Sunglasses or protective glasses can help protect your eyes from rainwater and debris.
• Avoid Contaminants: Stay away from areas with standing water, which harbors bacteria and viruses harmful to eye health.
• Regular eye exams: Visit an ophthalmologist regularly to ensure any signs of infection are noticed and treated early.

By being careful and adopting these preventative measures, you can enjoy the monsoons without compromising your eye health.