[Click! Health] Vacation Season Uninvited Guest 'Eye Closing' Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis

Also known as "the cold of the eyes," epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is a disease that sees a sharp increase in patients during the summer vacation season. As the name "epidemic" suggests, it can occur in clusters within a specific area around the same time. Keratoconjunctivitis is named by combining the two affected areas: the cornea, which corresponds to the black part of the eye, and the conjunctiva, which corresponds to the white part of the eye, both of which become inflamed.

Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis [Image source=Getty Images Bank]

The cause of the outbreak is a virus. Objects contaminated with the virus can easily act as carriers. It is highly contagious, and uncomfortable symptoms can persist for several weeks. The incubation period for epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is usually 5 to 7 days, and typically, by the third day after infection, there is an increase in secretions such as tears and eye discharge. Then, the eyes become red and bloodshot, and the eyelids may swell. In children, symptoms such as headache, chills, and sore throat may also accompany the condition.

In most cases, if one eye is infected, the other eye also becomes infected. This is because the virus present in tears can spread to the opposite eye. However, the symptoms in the second eye are usually milder than those in the initially affected eye. Generally, it resolves within about two weeks, but if the virus proliferates vigorously, it can invade the cornea, causing corneal opacity and potentially reducing vision.

Professor Kim Yoon-jeon of the Department of Ophthalmology at Seoul Asan Medical Center explained, "When an infection occurs, the focus of treatment is on alleviating symptoms and reducing complications. Antibiotic eye drops are used to prevent secondary bacterial infections, and anti-inflammatory agents may be used to control inflammation depending on the condition." He also advised, "Frequent use of artificial tears helps wash away virus-contaminated tears and aids in symptom relief. Cold compresses can also be helpful when the area around the eyes is swollen and there is a severe foreign body sensation."

Additionally, to prevent transmission, isolation and personal hygiene must be strictly observed. If one family member contracts epidemic keratoconjunctivitis, it is easy to spread to other family members, so it is best not to share items that can mediate viral infection, such as towels and bedding. Both the patient and family members should avoid rubbing or touching their eyes with their hands and wash their hands frequently.