Govt Lists 5 Measures For Preventing Red Eye Disease Outbreak In Kenya

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of the eye and lining the inner surface of the eyelids.

Marvin Chege Marvin Chege
Jan 26, 2024 - 03:19 Updated: Jan 26, 2024 - 03:27
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Govt Lists 5 Measures For Preventing Red Eye Disease Outbreak In Kenya
A person suffering from red eye disease. /PHOTO

The Ministry of Health on Thursday, January 25 addressed an alert warning to Kenyans raised by Kilifi's Department of Health Services regarding the outbreak of a new disease affecting the eyes.

The department had on Tuesday in a notice informed the public of an increased number of Red Eye Disease incidences recorded in the Coastal region, coming on the heels of a similar upsurge reported in neighbouring Tanzania.

"The Ministry of Health wishes to bring to the attention of the general public an upsurge of possible viral conjunctivitis cases in Mombasa County.

"The cases are very contagious and are presenting with red eyes (conjunctivitis), eye swelling, eye discharge and itchiness. The definitive cause has not yet been established but laboratory testing is pending," MoH said in a statement by Health Principal Secretary (PS) Muthoni Muriuki.

Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni speaking at Afya House when she presided over the launch of the Tuberculosis (TB) Strategic Plan 2023-2028 on January 22, 2024. /MINISTRY OF HEALTH

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent layer covering the white part of the eye and lining the inner surface of the eyelids.

Common risk factors for conjunctivitis include poor hygiene, contact lens misuse, contaminated personal articles, crowded living or social conditions, history of eye diseases, foreign bodies, chronic use of topical medications and extreme weather conditions.

Bacterial conjunctivitis peaks during the cold season while viral conjunctivitis peaks in the dry season.

Prevention

Muriuki thus advised the general public to undertake the following preventive measures:

  1. Enhance handwashing with soap and safe clean running water
  2. Use hand sanitisers frequently
  3. Maintain a high standard of hygiene and sanitation
  4. Visit health facilities for treatment as soon as symptoms appear
  5. Self-isolate at home when you develop symptoms

She further encouraged Kenyans with any enquiries to call the following numbers; 719 or 0729 471 414 or 0732 353 535.

"The Ministry of Health is committed and shall remain vigilant to ensure that Kenyans are well informed and protected against any public health threats including infectious diseases and that the citizens continue to receive quality health services," added the statement.

Symptoms

The symptoms of conjunctivitis can vary depending on the cause, but common signs and symptoms include:

  1. Redness: The whites of the eyes may appear pink or red.
  2. Itchiness: The eyes may feel itchy or irritated.
  3. Tearing: Excessive tearing or watery eyes.
  4. Discharge: A discharge from the eyes that can be watery or thicker and yellow or green in colour.
  5. Swelling: Swelling of the eyelids or the conjunctiva.
  6. Sensitivity to light: Eyes may be more sensitive to light.
  7. Blurry vision: Vision may be temporarily affected.

Conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants. Each type may have slightly different symptoms.

For instance, viral conjunctivitis may be associated with more watery discharge, while bacterial conjunctivitis may have a thicker, yellow or green discharge.

As for who is most affected, conjunctivitis can affect people of all ages. However, certain groups may be more susceptible:

  1. Children: Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are common in children, especially in school settings where infections can spread easily.
  2. Contact lens wearers: Improper cleaning or use of contact lenses can increase the risk of conjunctivitis.
  3. People with allergies: Allergic conjunctivitis is more common in individuals with allergies.
  4. Those with weakened immune systems: People with compromised immune systems may be more susceptible to infectious forms of conjunctivitis.

It's important to note that conjunctivitis can be highly contagious, especially if caused by bacteria or viruses. If you suspect you have conjunctivitis, it's advisable to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Over 1,000 cases of conjunctivitis were recorded in Mombasa County prompting the county health department to issue an alert to area residents.

The Ministry of Health in Tanzania on January 15 released a notice advising its citizens to take extra precaution after 869 cases of the Red Eye Disease were reported. 

Medical doctors in Kenya in quarantine gear amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. /AFP