During the summer vacation, people travel more abroad, and travel diseases are more common. Ophthalmologists warn that some of these diseases can also affect the eyes and compromise our visual health.
Ebola can leave survivors with eye effects. Looking back on survivor Aminata Koroma in Sierra Leone.Photo: Tommy Trenchard
Travel illnesses are caused by microorganisms such as Bacteria, Viruses or Parasites They are often spread when we travel abroad and some of these conditions can Seriously affect eyes Impairment of eye health.
he Fernández-Vega Eye Institute (IOFV)To promote summer travel prevention and eye protection, a series of Advice on avoiding these diseases.
as directed by a doctor Luis Fernandez Vega Fergrosso, Specialized ophthalmologists at the aforementioned institutes, available in the summer a variety of factors can compromise eye health as Sun, water or sand.
In addition to these factors, the ophthalmologist added traveler’s disease: “When we travel to certain parts of the country, we may be exposed to diseases that directly affect our eyes and vision, so we must always pay attention to our eye health .”
From onchocerciasis to trachoma
some possible travel illnesses cause redness and irritation in the eyes measles, mumps (viral infections affecting the salivary glands), Rubella, chickenpox and Zika virus.
However, onchocerciasis, trachoma, and infectious conjunctivitis are three diseases of travelers more common; generally can affect our eyes.
1. Onchocerciasis or river blindness
this Onchocerciasis By black fly bites infected.Effects on the eyes may include Mild disease up to complete loss of vision. Precautions such as using insect repellants and wearing protective clothing in areas where the disease is endemic, such as Brazil, Venezuela and Africa, must be taken.
2. Trachoma
Trachoma is a chronic bacterial infection It affects the conjunctiva and cornea of the eye. Its transmission occurs through direct contact with ocular secretions from a previous infection. It is more common in areas with poor sanitation and areas with poor sanitation. Africa about where to live 85% are affected.
3. Infectious conjunctivitis
It is usually produced by viruses and bacteria in unhygienic places.According to Dr Lewis Fernandez Vega Cuito Fergrosso“It is contagious for 7 to 14 days and can be spread simply by putting your hands over your eyes after touching a surface or object that an infected person has previously touched.
Prevention is essential to preserve vision
“Prevention is the best tool we have to protect our eyesight as we explore the world,” explains the specialist from the Fernández Vega Eye Institute.
Therefore, experts recommend:
- Be very hygienic and wash your hands frequently.
- use approved glasses With UV filter.
- Do not share towels, sheets, clothingcosmetics, or facial sunscreen, especially if infection is suspected.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes.
- Minimize sun exposure as much as possible.
- for prevent Dry eye should be controlled for environmental factors such as the use of air conditioner and protect yourself from sun and wind.
- Blink frequently.
- limit screen time computer, phone or tablet, and give your eyes regular rest.
- wearing contact lenses only when necessary
- sleep tight.
If signs of eye disease are found, the center recommends seeing an ophthalmologist as soon as possible, start appropriate treatment and be able to monitor evolution if necessary.