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The Eye Clinic of the University Hospital of Cologne, Germany, warns that eye flu is a severe infection caused by adenoviruses, which typically lurk on surfaces like doorknobs, stair railings, or computer keyboards.
According to the clinic, infection occurs when one rubs their eyes after touching these surfaces that harbor the highly resistant viruses. The symptoms of the infection include eye redness, increased tear production, itching, sensitivity to light, swollen lymph glands near the ear, and deteriorating vision due to inflammation and clouding of the cornea as well as the conjunctiva.
The clinic also notes that diagnosis is made by taking a swab from the eye with a cotton piece, then analyzing the cells found in the eye secretions in a laboratory setting.
## Anti-Inflammatory Eye Drops
Upon confirmation of the infection, treatment involves the use of anti-inflammatory eye drops. If the eye is dry, it can be moisturized using lubricating eye drops or ointments.
As eye flu is highly contagious, patients are advised not to share items such as towels with others. It is also important to stay home during the treatment period to prevent spreading the infection.
