Introduction:

A sweeping wave of Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) has engulfed India, prompting both the general public and ophthalmologists alike to take note. In response, the All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) has risen to the occasion, implementing a series of timely measures to provide essential information, guidance, and support for patients and practitioners dealing with this concerning outbreak. This article sheds light on the initiatives undertaken by AIOS to educate, inform, and manage the impact of EKC effectively.

A Proactive Approach by AIOS

1. Educational Webinar
   Recognizing the need for immediate information dissemination, Dr. Samar Basak, the President-Elect of AIOS, took the lead in organizing an insightful webinar dedicated to EKC. The webinar, held on July 26, aimed to enhance understanding of EKC and its management triage. The session was an invaluable resource for ophthalmologists and healthcare professionals, equipping them with the knowledge needed to address the outbreak. For those who missed the live event, the archived webinar was made available on the OneAIOS YouTube Channel, ensuring that crucial information remains accessible. This initiative exemplifies AIOS’s commitment to providing up-to-date educational resources to its members.
2. EKC Management Ready Reckoner
   AIOS swiftly responded to the urgency of the situation by developing a comprehensive Ready Reckoner on EKC Management. This resource, compiled based on the insights shared during the webinar, serves as a quick reference guide for AIOS members. The ready reckoner offers practical guidance on managing EKC cases, empowering ophthalmologists to make informed decisions in their clinical practice. This proactive measure underscores AIOS’s dedication to supporting its members with timely and relevant tools.
3. EyeGyan Patient-Education Campaign
   In a bid to bridge the knowledge gap between medical professionals and the general public, AIOS initiated the EyeGyan patient-education campaign. As part of this campaign, AIOS created a patient-education creative focused on Pink Eye, a common term for EKC. The creative material, thoughtfully prepared by AIOS, has been widely circulated to increase awareness among individuals and promote understanding of the condition. By engaging in such outreach efforts, AIOS demonstrates its commitment to empowering patients with accurate information to safeguard their ocular health.
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   Credit: Dr Sneha Makhija, Swaraashi Netralaya

   Evidence-Based Preferred Practice Pattern for EKC
   AIOS, in collaboration with esteemed organizations like the Cornea Society of India and ISCKRS, is actively working on formulating an evidence-based Preferred Practice Pattern for EKC. Led by Dr. Namrata Sharma and Dr. Somasheila Murthy of the AIOS Scientific Committee, this document will serve as a guiding framework for managing EKC cases. By synthesizing the latest research and expert insights, AIOS aims to enhance the quality of care provided to patients across the nation.

5. Current Practice of EKC Survey
   Dr. M Vanathi, Editor of the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology (IJO), has taken a vital step in assessing the current practice trends in managing EKC. Through a well-timed survey, AIOS encourages ophthalmologists to share their experiences, strategies, and challenges in dealing with the outbreak. This survey not only facilitates the collection of valuable data but also fosters a collaborative approach in understanding and addressing the outbreak’s impact. By actively participating in the survey, AIOS members contribute to a more comprehensive and informed response.

Conclusion

As AIOS continues to lead the way in managing EKC, its efforts serve as a testament to the importance of collaboration, timely information dissemination, and community engagement in combating public health challenges. By embracing these principles, AIOS sets a remarkable precedent for effective crisis response within the medical community, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for all.

Top image Credit: Dr. Sneha Makhija, Swaraashi Netralaya