How to Avoid Conjunctivitis During Cold and Flu Season

If you haven’t had the flu this season, chances are you know someone who has. The most recent influenza report from the CDC states that influenza activity increased in the United States during the week of January 21. The flu has been particularly bad this year, and it isn’t over yet. Ensure that you receive the flu shot, wash your hands, and exercise daily to avoid the flu and other diseases such as conjunctivitis.

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a viral eyeinfection that commonly occurs during cold and flu season. It’s typically characterized by redness and swelling of tissues around the eye. Symptoms include redness, swelling, discharge, and itching.

Why is Conjunctivitis so Common During Flu Season?

Just like the flu, conjunctivitis spreads from person to person contact. It’s important to frequently wash your hands and avoid touching your face to limit the spread of the flu. Similarly, doctors recommend avoiding touching your eyes and sharing makeup to limit the spread of pink eye. The flu attacks the body’s immune system, decreasing a person’s defense against viral infections like conjunctivitis. If you have the flu, you are at a higher risk of developing conjunctivitis

What Can I Do to Prevent Conjunctivitis?

Firstly, consider flu vaccine to prevent illness and self-infection. The flu vaccine doesn’t prevent the flu completely, but it can reduce the severity of the illness. Whether you work in an office or the foodservice industry, practice positive cold and flu prevention. Wash your hands, avoid touching your face, get plenty of sleep, and limit your alcohol intake. All of these prevention methods also can also help you to avoid contracting conjunctivitis.

CALL THE CATONSVILLE EYE GROUP TODAY!

Here at the Catonsville Eye Group, providing the best patient care is our #1 priority. The professionalism of our doctors coupled with our capable and caring staff, state of the art technology, and extensive frame and lens options are what have made Catonsville Eye Group the first choice for families in our community. We strive to provide the best possible professional care at fair and reasonable prices to our patients in the most courteous way possible!

If you would like to schedule an appointment, order contact lenses, or ask questions about our services at Catonsville Eye Group, please call our office at (410) 747-1221 or email us by clicking this link. We will respond to your request within 24 hours.

We’re located at the heart of the Music City at 611 Frederick Rd., Suite 101. Drop on by, or schedule an appointment today. We’re looking forward to seeing you!