The October heat and the warm temperature coupled with rain and the humidity is responsible for aggravating the virus or the bacteria existing in the atmosphere leading to conjunctivitis, says Prof Arvind Labhsetwar, head of the department of ophthalmology, B J Medical College and Sassoon Hospital.

While there were several cases of viral conjunctivitis (more commonly known as sore eyes) in July due to the rain, the incidence has shot up due to the weather change in October. However it will not last for more days, Labhsetwar said adding that it takes three to five days for healing.

``The last few days have seen a sudden rise in the number of cases of viral conjunctivitis,'' admitted Labhsetwar, adding that Sassoon itself received 12 cases in a day last week while more than 20 patients complained of sore eyes in two days.

Madhusudan Jhamwar, chief eye surgeon at the Pune Netra Seva Pratishthan termed the viral disease as ``Bombay conjunctivitis.'' The virus spreads rapidly by travelling and it is manifest in the form of severe swelling of the lids, redness of the eyes, discharge, itching, pain and a feverish feeling. Some patients also have blood shot eyes.

However, proper treatment which includes frequent washing of the eyes and applying antibiotic and steroid drops under the supervision of the eye specialist can check this highly contagious disease. Jhamwar said that there have been over 10 patients complaining of the disease on a daily basis at private hospitals.