In order to give the best care in these cases it is quite essential
that both the primary and secondary causes be given attention. Some
good =germicide= or =antiseptic= is to be used with intelligence. This
is in harmony with the great principles of antisepsis and cleanliness
taught by osteopathy from its inception. The use of the microscope in
the =bacteriology= of conjunctivitis aids in more definite diagnosis
and the selection of a proper germicide. For the Koch-Weeks bacillus,
the pneumococcus and the influenza bacillus silver nitrate 1% or a 25%
solution of argyrol is used; for the diplo bacillus (Morax-Axenfeld)
zinc sulphate 1 gr. to the ounce is almost a specific.
A good way to prepare the zinc prescription would be:
Boracic acid and water oz. 1.
Zinc sulphate gr. 1.
The boric acid and water of course being a saturated solution. Apply
one drop to each eye about four times a day. If one can not have
the use of the microscope to make specific the diagnosis, the zinc
solution may be alternated with the argyrol as the germicide. Ice cold
applications are good in many of these cases.