Coast on alert: 'Red eye' disease spreads, prompting caution and care

Health officials in Kilifi and Mombasa counties are urging residents to exercise caution due to an uptick in reported cases of 'red eye' disease in the Coast region. The surge in infections has led to a notable number of learners seeking medical care for eye infections at various health facilities.

Kilifi's Department of Health Services through a notice released on Tuesday, informed the public of an increased number of Red Eye Disease incidences recorded in the Coastal region.

It is suspected that the rise in 'red eye' or 'pink eye' disease may have originated from neighbouring Tanzania. 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. The Director of Medical Services in the East African country, Paul Ruggajo, noted severe headache, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck and head as additional symptoms in severe cases.

“The government is closely monitoring the trend of this disease, we advise citizens to pay attention to hygiene practices,” Ruggajo advised.

To better comprehend this infection, including its causes, symptoms, and home treatment options, is essential. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as 'red eye' or 'pink eye,' is an eye condition resulting from infection or allergies. Typically, it resolves within a couple of weeks without requiring specific treatment.

Health experts emphasize that viruses, bacteria, and allergens are the primary causes of conjunctivitis. Other contributing factors include chemicals, foreign bodies in the eye (such as loose eyelashes), and indoor/outdoor air pollution caused by smoke, dust, fumes, or chemical vapors.

According to the UK's National Health Service (NHS), conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes, causing redness, burning sensations, grittiness, pus that adheres to lashes, itching, or excessive tearing.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) caution that determining the precise cause of conjunctivitis can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. Viral conjunctivitis, resulting from a virus, can be highly contagious and may lead to significant outbreaks based on the specific virus involved. Bacterial conjunctivitis, more common in children than adults, can also occur without fever or behavioral changes, allowing affected children to usually continue attending school.

In light of these developments, health professionals emphasize the importance of prompt medical attention and adherence to preventive measures to curb the spread of the 'red eye' disease in the region.