The rainy season in Lagos brings more than wet roads and cooler weather. From Apollo (conjunctivitis) to eye allergies and UV exposure, discover three ways rainy weather can affect your eyes and practical tips to keep your vision healthy and protected.
The rainy season is fully here in Lagos. While the cooler weather is a welcome break from the intense heat, the heavy downpours, muddy roads, and constant dampness bring a unique set of challenges, not just for our daily commutes, but for our health.
When we think about staying healthy during the rains, we usually think about avoiding malaria, treating colds, or keeping our umbrellas handy. But did you know that the rainy season is also a peak time for specific eye issues?
At Elite Eyes and Opticals, we want to make sure your vision stays bright, clear, and comfortable, no matter how gloomy the weather gets outside.
Here are three hidden ways the rainy season affects your eyes and how you can protect them.
1. The Surge of "Apollo" (Conjunctivitis)
During the rainy season, cases of conjunctivitis, popularly known as “Apollo” in Nigeria, may occur. Conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens, and infectious forms can spread through contact with contaminated hands, towels, or other personal items. Although rainy weather does not directly cause conjunctivitis, maintaining good hygiene is important in reducing the risk of infection.
The Golden Rule: Avoid rubbing your eyes. If your hands touch a contaminated surface (like a damp handrail or door handle) and you rub your eyes, the virus spreads instantly. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
2. Molds, Allergies, and Itchy Eyes
The constant moisture in the air leads to a hidden culprit: mold and dust mites. For anyone prone to eye allergies, this season can mean a frustrating cycle of redness, burning, and intense itching.
Quick Tip: Keep your indoor spaces as dry and well-ventilated as possible. If you wear glasses, wipe them down regularly with a clean microfiber cloth to remove damp dust particles that cling to the lenses.
3. Don't Ditch the UV Protection Just Because It's Cloudy
It’s a common myth that we only need eye protection when the sun is blindingly bright. Even on heavily overcast, rainy days, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate the clouds.
What to do: Keep wearing your protective lenses or sunglasses when stepping out during the day. Your eyes need that defense year-round, rain or shine.
Let’s Chat: How Are Your Eyes Handling the Weather?
We want this blog to be a helpful community space for you. Have you or anyone in your family noticed your eyes feeling more watery, itchy, or irritated since the heavy rains started?
Drop a comment below or send us a message! Let us know what eye health topics or myths you’d like us to clear up in our next post.
If you are experiencing any persistent redness, blurred vision, or discomfort, don't wait for the season to change. Stop by our clinic for a comprehensive eye examination. We are always here to help you see life beautifully.
Stay dry, wash your hands, and give your eyes a break today!
