Bengaluru, Nov 10 (PTI) At least 74 firecracker-related eye injury cases have been reported at the city's Minto Ophthalmic Hospital and Narayana Nethralaya, with children and bystanders among those affected, hospital officials said on Tuesday.
According to data shared by Minto Ophthalmic Hospital, it treated 28 patients for firecracker-related eye injuries between November 6 and 9, consisting of 10 children and 18 adults.
Of the 28 cases, 11 sustained simple injuries and 17 suffered grievous injuries, it said.
Among the patients, 12 suffered self-inflicted injuries, while the remaining 16 were injured as bystanders.
Citing data as of November 9, the hospital said the types of firecrackers involved included Bijili, atom bombs, sky shots and Lakshmi patakas.
Of the patients treated, 25 were from Bengaluru, while one each was from Doddaballapura, Mysuru and Raichur, it said.
According to data shared by Narayana Nethralaya, Rajajinagar, it treated 46 patients between November 7 and November 10 till 11 am, including 25 children.
Of these, 33 were male and 13 female, while 16 sustained injuries as bystanders and 30 suffered self-inflicted injuries.
Forty-four patients were treated medically, while one underwent surgery for corneal tear repair. Another patient has also been advised to undergo surgery for corneal tear repair.
Dr Naren Shetty, Director of Narayana Nethralaya, advised parents to ensure that children are not allowed to handle firecrackers alone and are kept at a safe distance.
He also advised people to wear protective eyewear during celebrations to reduce the risk of eye injuries.
Dr Yathish S, Head of Department and Consultant, Cornea Services, Narayana Nethralaya, said most patients were managed with medical treatment in the OPD, while one patient underwent surgery.
He noted that firecracker-related eye injuries continue to be reported despite awareness efforts.
