Red eye disease outbreak shuts down six schools in Busia

The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) announced on Thursday that six schools in Busia County have sent their learners home due to an outbreak of red-eye disease, also known as conjunctivitis.

"Several schools including Amagoro Girls, Malaba Primary, Mundika Boys, Moding, and Nambale Boys have been affected," KUPPET Secretary General Moffat Okisai stated. "It is essential to take preventive measures. The affected students have been quarantined and isolated, and after a couple of days, they will resume their studies."

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink or red eye, is one of the most common and treatable eye conditions. It is most often caused by viruses, bacteria, and allergens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), viral and bacterial pink eye are highly contagious. Symptoms can vary but typically include redness or swelling of the white of the eye or inner eyelid. The swelling makes blood vessels more visible.

Conjunctivitis was first reported in Mombasa County at the end of 2023. Medical experts explain that the condition is caused by the inflammation of the transparent membrane in the eyeball, resulting from viral or bacterial infections, or allergic reactions.

In a public notice in 2023, the Mombasa County Government Public Health Department confirmed an outbreak of conjunctivitis but advised members of the public to take necessary precautions to prevent the infection. These precautions include avoiding rubbing one's eyes, maintaining good hygiene by regularly washing hands, and avoiding sharing personal items like towels or pillows. The use of warm or cold compresses on closed eyes in some cases has been employed to reduce irritation and inflammation, soothe the eyes, and alleviate redness.

Symptoms of the disease include red, itchy eyes, swelling of the conjunctiva, discharge of pus or mucus, and crusting of the eyelids or lashes.

Medical workers in Busia have advised parents of affected students to seek professional medical help, noting that the disease cannot be treated at home.

Addressing the press on the 1st of February 2024, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said three cases of the disease had been reported in Nairobi while one patient had tested positive in Kisii.

He affirmed that the government is actively addressing health emergencies in at least five counties, including Mombasa, Lamu, and Malindi.

"The government takes note of the outbreak of the red-eye disease in the Coastal region, specifically in the counties of Mombasa, Lamu, and Malindi. A few cases have also been reported in other parts of the country, with one case in Kisii and three in Nairobi," said Mwaura

According to the CDC, anyone can develop pink eye, but newborns with symptoms should visit a doctor.

The CDC advises that viral and bacterial pink eyes are highly contagious and can spread easily from person to person. You can prevent the spread by following good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, and not sharing personal items.

CDC notes that treatment for pink eye depends on the cause. Some types can be managed at home without medical treatment, but there are times when you should seek medical care.