Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has notified schools of a conjunctivitis outbreak. This eye infection, also known as “red eye,” is spreading in the Kampala metropolitan region.
In a March 13 letter to all school heads and principals, KCCA states it received an alert from the Public Health and Environment Director. Conjunctivitis cases have already been reported in some local schools and educational institutions.
“Some schools and education institutions have already reported cases,” states Mr. Charles Bonnie Maginot, Acting Director of Education and Social Services, in the letter.
The recommendations include frequent handwashing with soap and water. Avoid touching or rubbing eyes. Handshakes and close contact should also be avoided. Screen visitors entering school premises.
“Report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility. Alternatively, call our toll-free line at 0800299000,” Maginot advises. “Comprehensive guidelines on managing this outbreak will be issued by the Public Health and Environment Director.”
Health experts explain conjunctivitis as a viral infection causing contagious but temporary eye irritation. Without treatment, symptoms usually resolve within a week.
Telltale signs include redness, pain, irritation, swollen eye linings, and watery eyes.
Symptoms of #Conjunctivitis include;
I. Redness in the white of the eye/inner eye lid
II. Increased tears
III. Thick yellow discharge over the eyelashes
IV. Itching
V. Blurred vision
VI. Sensitivity to light— Ministry of Health- Uganda (@MinofHealthUG) March 14, 2024
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