India, Sept. 1 -- With incessant rains lashing several parts of the state, Pune has reported a 15-25% rise in conjunctivitis cases, commonly known as pink eye, over the past ten days. Health experts attribute the surge mainly to seasonal changes.

Dr Sanjay Patil, ophthalmologist at Patil Eye Hospital, said cases have steadily increased in the past week and a half. "We are seeing more than eight to ten cases daily. Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are rampant due to the rains and changing climate. Infections typically rise during this season, but with Ganeshotsav approaching, the chances of transmission will be even higher," he said.

Dr Patil said, "Previously, hardly a single case of Pink eye was reported in a week or fortnight. ...