Hospitals across the United Arab Emirates are seeing a sharp rise in cases of conjunctivitis, a contagious eye infection that causes redness and itching. Eye specialists believe this increase is linked to environmental conditions, daily habits, and people treating themselves without medical advice.
Doctors report that most patients are suffering from viral conjunctivitis, while others are experiencing allergy-related infections and bacterial cases.
Medical professionals warn that diagnosing the condition on your own and using eye drops without proper guidance can make the problem worse. It can also contribute to antibiotic resistance and, in serious situations, may even lead to lasting damage to vision.
Factors such as Dubai’s climate, frequent exposure to air conditioning, dust, sand, and long hours of screen use are making people’s eyes more vulnerable. In places where people gather, such as schools, workplaces, and gyms, the infection can spread easily. Poor hygiene while handling contact lenses also raises the chances of infection.
Doctors advise seeking medical attention if symptoms continue beyond 24 to 48 hours, worsen quickly, or include pain, blurry vision, or heavy discharge.
To reduce the risk of infection, experts recommend washing hands regularly, avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes, not sharing personal items like towels or eye drops, and avoiding the use of contact lenses while infected.
Experts clarified that this disease spreads through physical contact, and it is a misconception that viral conjunctivitis can occur just by looking at someone with it.