Clinical Features and Epidemiological Insights of Acute Epidemic Conjunctivitis: A Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study in North Central India.

Abstract

Purpose: To gain epidemiological insights by investigating the age, risk factors, and clinical features of individuals affected by the conjunctivitis outbreak.

Methods: The study was conducted at various ophthalmic centers, involving participants with clinical symptoms of acute conjunctivitis within one week from 15 June 2024 to 15 July 2024. Demographic information, clinical features, signs, and symptoms were recorded and analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 and MedCalc software.

Results: The study included 920 patients (1722 eyes), 56% males and 44% females, and most cases were bilateral (94%). Among the affected groups, hospital staff (43%) were the most affected, followed by school-going children (31%), those in direct contact with infected individuals (17%), or others (11%). The median age of onset was 26 years, with a range spanning from 2 to 76 years. The age group most affected was 19-49 years (52%), followed by <18 years (34%) and the elderly group (14%). The most common and first symptom was foreign body sensation (92%), and additional symptoms included ocular itching (81%) and watering (80%). The most prevalent signs were conjunctival congestion (99%), follicles (96%), subconjunctival bleeding (43%), eyelid swelling (51%), chemosis (39%), and pre-auricular lymph node enlargement (6%). Corneal involvement was not observed.

Discussions: Acute Epidemic Conjunctivitis (AEC) outbreaks have significant implications for public health, particularly regarding healthcare resource utilization, economic burden, and disruption of daily life. Timely identification, effective communication, and coordinated response strategies are essential to managing AEC outbreaks and preventing their escalation.

Conclusion: This study provides crucial insights into epidemic conjunctivitis in North Central India. The study findings can guide targeted interventions and healthcare resource allocation to manage the outbreak effectively.