A surge in cases of adenovirus conjunctivitis has led to overcrowding at the Eye Clinic of the University Clinical Centre Ljubljana (UKC Ljubljana). Since mid-May, the clinic has been experiencing an increased number of patients suffering from this highly contagious viral infection affecting the eye's conjunctive tissue. The condition has prompted the clinic to collaborate closely with the National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ) to monitor and manage the outbreak effectively.
The symptoms of adenovirus conjunctivitis typically begin with one eye turning red, followed by the spread of the infection to the other eye. Patients often experience discomfort, a foreign body sensation, itching, and a sticky discharge, along with watering eyes. Light sensitivity is also common, though vision loss is rare. In some instances, symptoms such as sore throat and general signs of a cold may accompany the eye infection. According to Dr. Mojca Urbančič, acting head of the Eye Clinic at UKC Ljubljana, the illness usually resolves on its own without specific treatment, but supportive care measures include washing the eyes with physiological saline solution and applying cool compresses. Pain relief medication can be used when necessary.
The duration of the illness varies among individuals and can last up to several weeks. While most cases resolve without complications, there are rare instances where the infection might affect the cornea, leading to potential vision impairment. In such situations, a visit to an ophthalmologist is recommended to explore additional treatments. For cases without worsening vision, patients are advised to remain at home and consult their doctor remotely.
Adenoviruses are the primary cause of conjunctivitis, although less commonly, other viruses such as herpes simplex, varicella zoster, and picornaviruses can also be responsible. This information is highlighted on the National Institute of Public Health’s website.
Since mid-May, the Eye Clinic has noticed a rise in infections, with 25 new cases recorded from Thursday to today alone. Patients have come from various parts of the country, and some have even become infected within the waiting areas of the clinic itself. In response to the outbreak, the clinic has implemented preventive measures aimed at curbing the spread of the infection. These include enhanced and frequent disinfection of surfaces, medical equipment, and waiting rooms. Patients suspected of being infected are isolated, and priority is given to treating those with suspected cases. Clear hygiene instructions are emphasized for both patients and staff, including regular handwashing and avoiding touching the face.
At the entrance of the clinic, as well as during intake and in all waiting areas, warning notices have been placed to inform visitors about the situation. The urgent-trauma triage unit at the Eye Clinic sees approximately 100 patients daily. However, many of these visits are from individuals who do not require immediate attention, which increases the risk of spreading the infection and reduces the availability of timely care for those in critical need. The clinic has issued warnings against unnecessary visits to ensure proper management of resources and patient safety.
Preventing the spread of viral conjunctivitis involves maintaining good personal hygiene practices. As advised by the National Institute of Public Health, washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with the eyes are crucial steps. It is also important to refrain from sharing personal hygiene items and to regularly clean surfaces and objects that are frequently touched. During the period of illness, visiting public pools should be avoided. If a family member becomes ill, there is a high risk of transmission, emphasizing the importance of strict hygiene practices and temporarily limiting close contact to prevent further spread.
4 reports
N1 SlovenijaIndependentCenter11 days agoThe Ophthalmology Clinic at the University Medical Center Ljubljana has reported an increase in cases of adenoviral conjunctivitis since mid-May. Adenoviral conjunctivitis is a highly contagious eye infection characterized by redness, discomfort, discharge, and sensitivity to light. The clinic has informed the National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ) and implemented preventive measures such as enhanced disinfection, separation of suspected patients, prioritization of high-risk cases, and hygiene protocols for both patients and staff. Most cases resolve on their own with supportive care like eye irrigation and cold compresses, but severe vision impairment requires medical attention. Patients are advised to stay home unless symptoms worsen.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a health issue—adenoviral conjunctivitis—and provides factual information about its symptoms, treatment, and prevention. There is no mention of political figures, policies, or partisan perspectives. The content is purely informative and does not exhibit any ideological framing
DomovinaIndependentCenter11 days agoThe number of cases of infectious conjunctivitis has increased at the Eye Clinic of UKC Ljubljana since mid-May. The condition, caused by an adenovirus, is highly contagious but typically does not lead to long-term complications. The clinic has implemented measures such as enhanced disinfection, isolation of suspected cases, and clear hygiene guidelines to prevent further spread. They have also issued warnings to patients who visit unnecessarily, which increases the risk of transmission and reduces the clinic's capacity to assist those with urgent needs. Conjunctivitis is a common inflammation of the eye's mucous membrane, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, and is particularly prevalent during spring and summer months.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a health issue related to an increase in infectious conjunctivitis cases. It provides factual information about the outbreak, prevention methods, and the clinic’s response. There is no political framing, bias, or mention of political figures, policies, or controversies. The sl
Maribor24IndependentCenter11 days agoThe Očesna klinika at UKC Ljubljana has reported an increase in cases of adenoviral conjunctivitis, a highly contagious eye infection, since mid-May. The condition typically resolves without lasting effects but has led to overcrowding at the clinic. Doctors warn that non-urgent visits are increasing, which risks spreading the infection and delaying critical care. Patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention only if they experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or eye injuries. For less severe symptoms like redness, itching, or tearing without other serious issues, patients are encouraged to consult their family doctor. Preventive measures such as more frequent disinfection, isolation of suspected cases, and strict hygiene protocols have been implemented.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a health issue with no direct political implications. It provides factual information about an outbreak of a contagious disease, includes warnings from medical professionals, and outlines preventive measures. There is no evident ideological framing or bias in the reporting.
Info360IndependentCenter11 days agoThe Eye Clinic at the University Clinical Center Ljubljana has reported an increase in cases of adenoviral conjunctivitis since mid-May 2026. This highly contagious but generally self-limiting condition affects most patients without long-term consequences. The clinic has informed the National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ) and implemented preventive measures such as enhanced disinfection, isolation of suspected cases, prioritization of urgent cases, and hygiene protocols for both patients and staff. They have also placed warning notices throughout the facility. Patients are advised to visit the emergency triage only if they experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or eye injury, while those with mild symptoms like redness or watering are encouraged to stay home and consult their general practitioner to reduce the risk of spreading infection.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a health issue and outlines medical procedures and public health measures taken by a hospital. There is no political framing, controversy, or ideological emphasis present in the content.
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