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Abstract
Conjunctivitis is a common ocular infection that affects individuals worldwide. The present study is primarily driven by the well-established association between the increased incidence of conjunctivitis during the wheat harvesting season and contributing factors such as inadequate personal hygiene and prolonged exposure to sunlight. In addition, the lifestyle of farmers and rural residents, together with widespread poverty and low literacy levels, may contribute significantly to the higher prevalence of this condition within the affected population. Purpose: The present study was designed to evaluate the incidence of infectious and allergic conjunctival inflammation among the local population of Hafizabad District, Punjab, Pakistan.Methods: A community-based, observational descriptive study was carried out between March and May 2025, in rural Punjab, Pakistan, utilizing a quantitative research design. The examination process involved a detailed inspection of the eyes, starting with the anterior segment and followed by the posterior segment, using a slit-lamp and direct ophthalmoscope. The objective was to assess the presence of conjunctivitis. Data were systematically gathered on different types of conjunctivitis, including viral, allergic, and bacterial forms. Results: Our study discloses that 250 farmers (46%) demonstrated symptoms consistent with viral and bacterial conjunctivitis. Among them, 120 farmers (48%) were diagnosed with allergic conjunctivitis; moreover, 85 locals (34%) were diagnosed with viral conjunctivitis, while 30 villagers (12%) had bacterial conjunctivitis and 15 locals (6%) had none. As far as their healthcare-seeking exploits, 50 individuals (20%) go for consultation to an ophthalmologist/optometrist, while 106 farmers (42.4%) come down in favour of home remedies. Exceptionally, a consequential section 79 (31.6%) did not seek any form of medical attention, whereas only 15 mortals (6%) opted for pharmacy treatment. More respectively 10 individuals (4%) received the symptoms from friends, while another 12 individuals (4.8%) received it from family. A slightly higher number, 20 individuals (8%), obtained it from local sources. The vast majority, 208 individuals, representing 83.2%, were farmers. Conclusion: The widespread reliance on traditional preventive practices and the reluctance of farmers to seek professional medical care have been identified as important factors contributing to the high prevalence of allergic and viral conjunctivitis. Moreover, prolonged working hours in agricultural fields, continuous exposure to sunlight, and poor hygiene in both living and working environments may further increase the risk of ocular infections and allergic eye diseases. The high burden of conjunctivitis and other ocular injuries highlights the urgent need to promote the use of protective eyewear and implement effective eye safety practices among agricultural workers. Given the socioeconomic challenges faced by farmers and rural communities, it is essential for the government to develop and strengthen public health awareness campaigns and support programs tailored to the specific needs of Pakistan's agricultural population.