Doctors sound alarm on eye infection threat in cyclone shelters

The College of Ophthalmologists has warned of a heightened risk of eye infections in safe shelters housing people affected by Cyclone Ditwah, urging strict hygiene practices to prevent outbreaks.

Its President Dr. Kusum Ratnayake said the risk is particularly high in crowded shelters, where infectious diseases can spread quickly.

“Eye diseases often begin with redness in eyes, commonly known as ‘sore eyes’ or ‘conjunctivitis’. This disease spreads rapidly through contact and airborne transmission,” Dr. Ratnayake said.

Dr. Ratnayake advised that individuals with symptoms should wash their hands frequently and avoid touching their eyes.

Failure to follow these precautions could allow infections to spread throughout the shelter, potentially causing broader health complications.