Epidemiological Insights and Statistical Analysis of a Recent Conjunctivitis Outbreak in Lahore, Pakistan

Muhammad Sulman Khan; Maryam Ahmed Ali; Safeera Zaineb; Safeer Hussain; Sohail Shah; Muzaffar Bashir

Authors

Muhammad Sulman Khan Smart Computing and Applied Science Group, Department of Physics, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Maryam Ahmed Ali Smart Computing and Applied Science Group, Department of Physics, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Safeera Zaineb Smart Computing and Applied Science Group, Department of Physics, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Safeer Hussain Smart Computing and Applied Science Group, Department of Physics, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Sohail Shah Smart Computing and Applied Science Group, Department of Physics, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Muzaffar Bashir Smart Computing and Applied Science Group, Department of Physics, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan

Keywords:

Statistical Analysis, Epidemiology, Contagious Eye Infection, Disease Prevalent, Social Environments

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of a recent outbreak of conjunctivitis, known as pink eye disease, in Lahore, Pakistan. Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious eye infection that poses a significant public health concern, particularly in social environments. The research focuses on understanding the prevalence and influencing factors of this ailment through a statistical analysis of patient data. The gender distribution among patients revealed a slightly higher prevalence among males (52.5%) as compared to females (47.5%). Young adults (age 18-25) comprised the highest affected group (89%), emphasizing the higher infection's prevalence among this demographic. Symptom analysis highlights moderate to severe manifestations as predominant, significantly impacting patients' daily routines. Males exhibit a higher severity, potentially associated with increased social engagement compared to females. Notably, the infection commonly affects both eyes (86%), and individuals with a history of prior eye infections demonstrate a reduced likelihood of contracting conjunctivitis (11%). The onset of symptoms is typically sudden (85%), with a gradual presentation in some cases (15%). Despite the contagious nature of the infection, its spread to family members’ remains relatively limited (36.8%). Remarkably, although symptoms are severe, the duration of the infection is brief, with most patients recovering within 2-5 days, even without medical consultation. Moreover, the spatial distribution showed that redness and itchiness were very severe in location 1(latitude 31.4972, and longitude 74.2735) and severe in location 4 (latitude 31.508, and longitude 74.327). In conclusion, this study is the first to report on the rapid yet severe nature of a conjunctivitis outbreak in Lahore. Key trends, including gender disparities, previous eye infection history, sudden onset of symptoms, and limited familial transmission, have emerged. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for implementing targeted preventive measures and developing effective management strategies for this contagious eye infection. The findings contribute valuable epidemiological insights that can guide public health interventions in similar scenarios.

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