Overcrowded terraces are the perfect setting for sharing laughs, drinks, and, unintentionally, bacteria or viruses. Infectious conjunctivitis spreads easily in these spaces, either through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or by rubbing hands that haven't seen a sink in hours. You don't need to be a doctor to know that a red, goopy eye isn't a great complement to your weekend look.
The eye that sees everything (and infects everything) 😷
From a technical standpoint, viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are transmitted via fomites or through hand-to-eye contact. In a crowded terrace, the density of pathogens on surfaces like bars, tables, and faucets is high. A basic applied microbiology study indicates that adenovirus and Staphylococcus aureus can survive for hours on stainless steel. The solution isn't complex: frequent hand washing and avoiding touching your eyes. But in practice, no one does it.
The eye of the storm (and the gin and tonic) 🍸
If after a night of terrace-hopping you wake up with an eye that looks like a cherry tomato, don't worry: it's the new Instagram filter. They call it conjunctivitis mode and it comes included at no extra cost. The best part is that now you'll have an excuse to wear sunglasses even at night. And if someone asks, tell them it's a tribute to the zombies from The Walking Dead. Hygiene is optional, humor is mandatory.