Pink Eye Disease Surge in Pakistan: A Silent Epidemic of Adenoviral Conjunctivitis Demanding Urgent Action to Prevent Long-term Ocular Morbidities

Doi: 10.36351/pjo.v40i4.1935

Abstract

Dear Editor! infectious disease has always been a challenge and burden on healthcare system of Pakistan. Beside other infectious diseasesin the recent years, there has been increase in cases of adenoviral conjunctivitis affecting almost all parts of the country from Karachi to Lahorereporting over 288000 cases in 2023 from January to September alone.^1,2No, doubt, Adenoviral Conjunctivitis has always been an important ocular infection around the globe causing a large part of over 65-90% of total vial conjunctivitis.³In Pakistan during 2024, this infection has quietly escalated into an epidemic, impacting nearly all major cities. Over 13,473 cases have been reported in various government hospitals within a span of thirty days (August-September 2024).²On Tuesday, September 4, a total of 907 cases were reported within just 24 hours, highlighting the widespread nature of the outbreak.⁴