Crowded homes, packed public transport, and shared workspaces in big cities make it all too easy for infections to spread like wildfire. “It’s like the perfect storm for bacteria and viruses,” says Dr Hasanain Shikari, consultant ophthalmologist at Saifee Hospital
Crowded homes, packed public transport, and shared workspaces in big cities make it all too easy for infections to spread like wildfire. Representation pic/istock
With Mumbai anticipating the arrival of the monsoon in the coming weeks, city-based ophthalmologists are raising concerns over a likely surge in eye infection cases. “The onset of the monsoon season is often accompanied by a notable increase in eye infections and vision-related issues,” explained Dr Smit M Bavariya of Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital.
Crowded homes, packed public transport, and shared workspaces in big cities make it all too easy for infections to spread like wildfire. “It’s like the perfect storm for bacteria and viruses,” says Dr Hasanain Shikari, consultant ophthalmologist at Saifee Hospital. “The humidity acts almost like an incubator, encouraging microbes to grow and spread faster than usual.”
Varsha Salunke, patient
And while we often worry about what we eat or drink during the rainy season, many forget the simplest way these bugs reach us — through our own hands. Touching your eyes after handling contaminated surfaces can easily trigger an infection. “Hand-to-eye contact is the most common route,” says Dr Shikari.
Dr Vinaykumar Agrawal of Clear Vision Clinic, Santacruz, adds that the constant flip-flop between hot and cool temperatures, along with a spike in moisture, gives pathogens the upper hand. “We’re seeing a surge in conditions like viral conjunctivitis — what people call ‘Madras Eye’ — as well as bacterial infections, styes, and even corneal ulcers.”
It’s not just theory — cases are rising rapidly across the city. Take Varsha Salunke, a 38-year-old staff member at Dr Bavariya’s clinic. What began as mild irritation in one eye quickly turned into full-blown conjunctivitis. “It was painful and my eyes watered a lot,” she says. “It started in my right eye and then spread to the left, too.” Before long, her 10-year-old daughter also began showing symptoms.
Dr Charuta Mandke, head of ophthalmology at Cooper Hospital, explains that the spike is also tied to the overall increase in seasonal illnesses. “Monsoon brings a wave of viral and bacterial infections,” she says. “When the immune system is already under strain, eye infections find an easy opening. With schools reopening, children are in close contact again. They touch everything, rub their eyes, and unknowingly spread infections. It’s no surprise we see a surge in paediatric cases every June and July.”
Children, the elderly, and people with low immunity are particularly vulnerable. Doctors have noted a two- to three-fold increase in patient inflow during this season. The adenovirus has been flagged as a leading cause of viral conjunctivitis.
Prevention, experts say, starts with the basics — strict hygiene. “Avoid touching your eyes, especially with unwashed hands,” urges Dr Bavariya. “That one simple habit can cut your risk significantly.” Contact lens users are advised to reduce or stop usage during this time, and protective eyewear is recommended for those frequently outdoors.
What’s more concerning is the widespread tendency to self-medicate. “Steroid-based eye drops are being misused without prescriptions,” warns Dr Bavariya. “This can worsen viral infections, damage the cornea, and lead to serious complications.” Dr Agrawal adds, “If your symptoms persist for more than a day, don’t reach for a random eye drop — see a professional.” While most eye infections clear up within a few days, early diagnosis and proper treatment can reduce recovery time and curb further spread.
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