Rising Eye Flu Cases in Ludhiana: Summer Surge & Prevention Tips

Ludhiana is experiencing a steady increase in cases of eye flu, medically known as conjunctivitis, as temperatures rise during the current summer season. According to reporting by The Times of India on May 3, 2026, ophthalmologists across the city have noted a higher volume of patients presenting with symptoms including redness, itching, irritation and watery discharge from the eyes.

Medical professionals attribute the spike to a combination of rising temperatures, pollution, dust, and poor hygiene practices, which create conditions conducive to the spread of the contagious infection.

Clinical Observations and Patient Demographics

The surge in patients has been observed across both government and private healthcare facilities. Dr. Gurvinder Kaur, professor and head of the department of ophthalmology at DMCH, reported seeing 2 to 3 eye flu patients daily. She noted that the majority of these patients are adults who often contract the infection at their workplaces, although children are also affected.

Dr. Brijinder Singh Rana, a city-based eye surgeon, reported a higher daily volume, seeing 5 to 6 such patients per day. Among his patients, 3 to 4 are children. Dr. Rana observed a pattern where one or two parents frequently become infected after their children contract the virus. He stated that he began seeing these patients since the end of April 2026.

Other experts cited in the report indicated that the uptick began approximately 5 to 10 days prior to May 3, 2026. These clinicians report seeing between 3 to 5 patients daily, with the most affected adult demographic falling in the 30 to 50 years age group, alongside children aged 3 to 5 years.

Medical Risks and Treatment

While conjunctivitis is often a self-limiting condition, experts warn that it requires proper medical attention to prevent complications. Dr. Gurvinder Kaur emphasized the importance of professional eye tests when symptoms appear, noting that in some instances, the cornea can become involved, which necessitates advanced treatment.

Conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids—becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be triggered by viral infections, bacterial growth, or allergens. Viral conjunctivitis, in particular, is highly contagious and spreads easily through direct contact with infected secretions or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces.

Prevention and Hygiene Guidelines

To curb the spread of the infection, health experts recommend strict adherence to personal hygiene. Because the virus is highly transmissible, the following preventive measures are advised by medical professionals:

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water, particularly after touching the face or eyes.
• Avoiding the habit of rubbing or touching the eyes to prevent the introduction of germs.
• Refraining from sharing personal items such as towels, pillows, or eye makeup.
• Regularly disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, including doorknobs and mobile phones.
• Discontinuing the use of contact lenses and switching to glasses until the infection has fully cleared.

For those experiencing mild symptoms, medical guidance often includes the use of cold or warm compresses to reduce swelling and soothe irritation. However, clinicians stress that these are supportive measures and not a substitute for a professional diagnosis, especially if vision becomes blurred or pain increases.