Festive Travel and Air Pollution Trigger Eye Infections: Why Cases Spike This Time of Year

The festive season usually means packed travel plans, family gatherings, and long days spent outdoors, but alongside the celebrations, many people also notice an uncomfortable change: irritated, itchy,

or red eyes that seem to show up around this time every year. These eye problems are rarely caused by one single issue but mostly are a result of several seasonal factors coming together and making the eyes more sensitive and prone to infection.

What contributes to eye damage?

One of the biggest contributors is the sharp rise in air pollution. “Increased traffic, construction activity, firecrackers, and weather conditions that trap dust and smoke close to the ground all affect eye health,” Dr J L Goyal, consultant ophthalmologist, Kailash Hospital, told Times Now. Tiny particles in polluted air irritate the surface of the eyes, leading to dryness and inflammation. Doctors say that over time, this weakens the eye’s natural protective layer, making it easier for bacteria, viruses, and allergens to trigger infections such as conjunctivitis or allergic eye reactions. “Travel during the holidays adds another layer of stress for the eyes. Long hours in air-conditioned cars, trains, or flights, crowded public spaces, and low humidity levels can quickly dry out the eyes and cause strain,” Dr Goyal added. Extended screen use during journeys, combined with fatigue, dehydration, and irregular sleep, further lowers immunity. When the body is tired, the eyes take longer to recover from irritation and become more vulnerable to infections. “Festive celebrations often disrupt our daily routines, and this change itself becomes a major trigger for eye-related problems. Late nights, inadequate sleep, prolonged screen exposure during travel or shopping, and dehydration can strain the eyes and weaken their natural defence mechanisms,” said Dr Charu Agarwal, consultant ophthalmologist, Paras Health. During this period, frequent use of makeup, exposure to decorative lights, and spending long hours in air-conditioned or polluted environments further compromise eye health. Many people also tend to ignore early symptoms like mild irritation or watering, allowing minor issues to progress into infections such as conjunctivitis or stye. Another overlooked factor is reduced immunity during festive stress. Irregular meals, excessive sugar or alcohol intake, and physical exhaustion can lower the body’s ability to fight infections, including those affecting the eyes. This is why eye complaints often peak shortly after major festivals.

How to protect your eyes?

There are clear and practical steps that help protect your eyes during this period:

• Use lubricating eye drops regularly to relieve dryness and maintain moisture.
• Do not rub your eyes, even when they feel itchy, as rubbing worsens irritation and can introduce bacteria or viruses.
• Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce exposure to dust, smoke, and other pollutants.
• Stay hydrated and get sufficient sleep, which helps the body’s immune system work effectively.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or eye makeup, which can carry germs.
• Consult an eye specialist promptly if you notice persistent redness, discharge, pain, or blurred vision, because early treatment prevents complications.