Actor Ranbir Kapoor has reportedly developed conjunctivitis (pink eye) just days before the grand trailer screening of Ramayana in Delhi on July 24. According to reports, the infection first affected his daughter Rahu and then passed on to the actor. Despite the infection, Ranbir is expected to attend the much-awaited Pratham Sankalp event at the Bharat Mandapam. Known for honoring his professional commitments, he may reportedly wear black glasses during the launch as a precaution. This incident also highlights how easily conjunctivitis can spread within households, especially among family members in close contact. “Ranbir Kapoor’s report of conjunctivitis has highlighted one of the most contagious eye infections we see, especially during the monsoon season. Viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, spreads easily through contaminated hands, towels, pillowcases, mobile phones and other frequently touched surfaces, rather than simply by looking into someone’s eyes, which is a widely held myth,” Ranbir Kapoor said. Dr. Rashmi Mittal, Senior Consultant and Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad.
Can conjunctivitis run in the family?
Viral conjunctivitis, the most common type, is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with infected eye discharge or contaminated hands, towels, pillows and other personal items. Children often contract the infection at school or daycare and can unknowingly pass it on to parents or siblings through close contact.
Read also: Recovery from conjunctivitis: Follow these rules to take care of your eyes
Common symptoms of conjunctivitis
Symptoms usually develop in one eye and then spread to the other and may include:
- Red or pink eyes
- Itching or irritation
- Excessive gap
- Thick or watery discharge from the eyes
- Formation of crusts on the eyelids, especially after waking up.
- Sensitivity to light
- Feeling of sand in the eyes
How long is it contagious?
According to Dr. Mittal, a person is usually contagious for 7 to 14 days or until the eyes are no longer red, watery, or discharge. Transmission is most likely in the first three to five days. When one family member gets conjunctivitis, it is not uncommon for other family members to become infected within a few days if strict hand hygiene is not practiced.
How to prevent it from spreading
If someone in the family has conjunctivitis:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Do not touch or rub your eyes.
- Do not share towels, pillows, handkerchiefs, eye makeup, or contact lenses.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly.
- Stay home from work or school as advised by your doctor, especially during the highly contagious phase.
Read also: Eye health: 10 tips to help cope with conjunctivitis during the rainy season
When should you see a doctor?
Medical care is important if conjunctivitis is accompanied by:
- Severe pain in the eyes
- Blurred vision
- Extreme sensitivity to light
- Swelling around the eyes
- Thick yellow or green discharge
Symptoms that do not improve within a few days. This may indicate bacterial conjunctivitis or another eye disease that requires treatment. Although most cases of conjunctivitis are mild and go away with proper care, maintaining good hand hygiene, avoiding shared personal items, and promptly seeking medical attention can help prevent further spread of the infection.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV is not responsible for this information.