Eye flu · conjunctivitis জয় বাংলা · চোখ ওঠা
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ananyabrata Das, MBBS, DO
Updated 22 October 2026
Eye flu (conjunctivitis) in Kolkata: what to do and when to see a doctor
Red, sticky, watery eyes spreading through the family or school: Kolkata's monsoon "eye flu" (জয় বাংলা). Most cases settle in one to two weeks, but some are not simple conjunctivitis, and the wrong drops can make things much worse.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ananyabrata Das, MBBS, DOUpdated 22 October 2026
Symptoms
- Red or pink eye, often starting in one eye and spreading to the other
- Watery or sticky discharge; lids stuck together in the morning
- Grittiness, mild itching, swollen lids
- Sometimes a cold, sore throat or a tender lump in front of the ear
Viral, bacterial or allergic?
| Type | Typical signs | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Viral (most eye flu) | Watery, spreads fast, cold symptoms | Settles on its own; lubricants, hygiene |
| Bacterial | Thick yellow-green discharge | Antibiotic drops on prescription |
| Allergic | Itching, both eyes, seasonal | Anti-allergy drops; avoid rubbing |
Home care
- Wash hands often, and don't touch or rub the eyes
- Clean discharge with cotton and boiled, cooled water, a fresh piece for each eye
- Separate towels, pillow covers and handkerchiefs
- Cold compresses and preservative-free lubricant drops for comfort
- Stop contact lenses until fully healed, and replace the case
Don't use steroid drops from the chemist. Combination drops with steroids can worsen herpes and fungal infections and, over weeks, cause glaucoma and cataract.
When to see an eye doctor
- Pain rather than grittiness, or sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision that does not clear with blinking
- A white spot on the cornea, or a wound
- No improvement after a week, or a newborn with red, sticky eyes
- You wear contact lenses
Call +91 98308 73460 or book a visit. For severe pain or sudden loss of vision, see eye emergencies.
Questions
How long does eye flu last?
Viral conjunctivitis usually improves within 7–14 days. Bacterial conjunctivitis improves within a few days of antibiotic drops.
Can I go to office or school with eye flu?
It is contagious while the eyes are red and watering. Most people should stay home for 3–5 days, and children until the discharge stops.
Does looking at someone with eye flu spread it?
No. It spreads through contact: hands, towels, pillows and shared items, not by eye contact.