Don’t Let Eye Flu Blur Your Life: Know the Causes & Symptoms

With the rise of digital screens, crowded spaces, and high-touch surfaces, eye flu — an infection of the eye caused by viruses — has become an all-too-common issue that can affect anyone, anywhere. Eye flu disrupts not only our physical comfort but also how we engage with the world around us. 

In India, it has been reported that approximately 80% of acute cases are caused by viruses. Additionally, children are being affected more than adults.

Understanding how to identify, prevent, and treat eye flu is crucial for maintaining both your health and your lifestyle. Let’s explore everything you need to know about eye flu — from its causes to tips for a speedy recovery — so you can keep your eyes healthy and your life moving forward.

Eye flu is a viral infection that affects the conjunctiva, the thin membrane over the white part of the eyes and the inner eyelids. It is often caused by adenoviruses but can also stem from other viral infections. With viruses spreading quickly through digital interactions, crowded public places, and shared office spaces, eye flu has become a more common occurrence. 

The condition can also easily be transmitted in places like gyms, cafes, or public transport where people are in close contact for prolonged periods. With the rise of remote work and digital meetings, you might find that you’re more susceptible after spending long hours on screens that strain your eyes.

There are two main types of eye flu:

1. Viral conjunctivitis: Caused by viruses like adenoviruses, this form of eye flu is the most common. It spreads quickly through physical contact or shared surfaces, making it an issue for workplaces and homes where everyone is in close quarters.
2. Allergic conjunctivitis: While not caused by a virus, allergic conjunctivitis is often referred to as ‘eye flu’ because it shares similar symptoms like redness, itchiness, and irritation. This type is becoming more common due to modern environmental factors like pollution, dust, and allergens that trigger immune responses, particularly in urban areas.

The factors that cause eye flu go beyond just viral exposure:

1. Increased exposure to viruses: With people returning to crowded places like offices, schools, and public transport, the chances of catching viruses that lead to eye flu are higher. As we interact in close proximity to each other, it’s easy to pick up the virus from surfaces or airborne droplets.
2. Constant screen time: Our tech-driven lifestyles often involve long hours of staring at screens — whether it's a computer, smartphone, or tablet. This leads to ‘digital eye strain,’ which weakens the eye’s natural defences and makes it more vulnerable to infections like eye flu.
3. Pollution and allergens: In urban environments, high levels of pollution, dust, and allergens trigger allergic reactions, contributing to symptoms similar to eye flu. This modern issue, coupled with the global rise in environmental sensitivity, makes it even harder to prevent irritation and infection.
4. Shared devices and objects: With the rise of remote work, we’re using shared devices more often — whether at home or in public spaces like cafes or libraries. This increases the risk of spreading infections like eye flu through unclean devices, surfaces, or even virtual meetings where people may inadvertently touch their eyes.

Recognising eye flu in the modern age is key to controlling its spread and managing your daily routine. Symptoms include:

• Redness and swelling: You may notice your eyes becoming bloodshot, a condition that can be quite noticeable during video calls or meetings.
• Itchy, gritty feeling: Prolonged screen time may already leave your eyes feeling dry and strained. When combined with the symptoms of eye flu, this feeling can be amplified.
• Watery eyes or discharge: We’re often in environments (like air-conditioned offices or heated homes) that can dry out our eyes. When eye flu sets in, this discharge can make your eyes feel even more uncomfortable.
• Sensitivity to light: Long hours of screen use can increase light sensitivity. Add eye flu to the mix, and you’ll likely find it hard to go about your usual routine, especially in bright settings.

While eye flu typically lasts for about 7 to 14 days, its duration can vary depending on how well you manage symptoms. It’s crucial to manage eye flu symptoms efficiently so that they don’t interfere with your productivity or daily tasks. On an average:

• Mild cases: These may be resolved within a week with basic care and hygiene.
• Severe cases: If left untreated, symptoms may last longer, which could result in missed work or school days.

With increased connectivity and exposure, prevention becomes even more crucial. Here are some lifestyle-oriented tips to prevent eye flu:

1. Digital detox: With constant screen time affecting your eye health, a ‘digital detox’ could help reduce strain. Think about using blue light filters on your devices and remember to take breaks by following the 20-20-20 rule: Simply focus on an object placed 20 feet away for 20 seconds, every 20 minutes.

2. Regular hygiene practices: With shared spaces, frequent hand washing, sanitising your workstations, and cleaning your devices are more important than ever. Always wash your hands before touching your face or eyes.

3. Avoid crowded spaces whenever possible: While it’s not always possible to avoid public places, limiting exposure to crowded areas — especially when you know someone has eye flu — can help prevent the spread.

4. Eye protection: Wearing protective sunglasses outdoors can shield your eyes from harmful allergens and pollutants, both of which contribute to eye irritation. Consider wearing glasses if you're feeling symptoms of eye flu to avoid spreading it.

Here are a few tips to manage eye flu and speed up your recovery:

1. Cold compress and eye drops

Digital screens can cause irritation. Use a cold compress to soothe redness and dryness. Lubricating eye drops can help moisturise your eyes, especially if you're viewing screens for long periods.

2. Rest your eyes 

It’s tempting to push through when you're at home working or studying, but giving your eyes some rest will speed up recovery.

3. Boost your immunity with healthy habits 

Nutrition plays a vital role in recovery. Focus on staying hydrated and eating foods rich in vitamins C and E to support your immune system.

4. Clean your devices 

Disinfect your phone, computer, or any shared devices regularly to reduce the risk of reinfection.

While eye flu often resolves on its own, seek medical help if:

• Symptoms worsen: If your symptoms are not improving or are getting worse, it could indicate a secondary bacterial infection or a more severe viral case.
• Vision changes: If you experience blurry vision, a sudden change in vision, or extreme sensitivity to light, seek medical advice.
• Severe pain: Pain, especially if accompanied by fever or headaches, requires immediate medical attention.

Eye flu, though often considered a minor inconvenience, can disrupt your routine significantly. With the rise of digital exposure, crowded environments, and the global spread of viruses, it’s crucial to take preventive measures seriously. Through proper hygiene practices, regulating your screen usage, and emphasising a balanced lifestyle, you can reduce the effects of eye flu. However, if symptoms worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.

Eye flu typically lasts 7 to 14 days, but symptoms may persist longer depending on individual factors.

Yes, eye flu spreads easily through direct contact with infected secretions and surfaces.

Eye flu is mainly caused by viral infections, particularly adenoviruses, and occasionally by allergens found in urban settings.

Yes, eye flu can usually be managed at home with cold compresses and good hygiene.

It’s best to gently rinse your eyes with clean water or a saline solution to get rid of any discharge. Refrain from rubbing your eyes to avoid causing more irritation.

There are no specific medications for eye flu. Lubricating the eye can help relieve discomfort, but always consult a doctor first.