After Ri Bhoi district, an outbreak of conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘pink eye’, a contagious eye infection, has been reported in the city.
At least 20 people with symptoms of conjunctivitis were recorded at Mawlai-Mawroh PHC, East Khasi Hills District Medical Health Officer (DMHO) Dr Adrena Lyngdoh said.
“Cases have been reported from different pockets, and we have issued letters to all the facilities and organisations in order to create awareness to prevent the disease.
The Bansara Eye Care Centre has reported many cases of conjunctivitis. Vitreo Retinal Surgeon and Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr Tania Basaiawmoit told Highland Post, “In the out patient department of an average 100 to 150 patients, we get about 20 to 30 cases of conjunctivitis daily.”
Dr Basaiawmoit said conjunctivitis patient generally experiences eyes turning red, feeling itchy and painful, and witnessing a watery or thicker discharge. The disease can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens, and highly contagious.
She advised that a person infected with conjunctivitis should use boiled water to clean the eyes and wipe them with a clean towel. She also warned against rubbing of the eyes and use of any herbs or juices.
Meanwhile, the National Health Mission has issued an advisory to protect from the infection like maintaining proper hygiene, avoiding sharing of articles like towels, contact lenses or eye makeup and to avoid attending school or offices for seven days.
Any patient who experiences decrease in vision, intolerance to light, severe pain, symptoms that last for five days and presence of thick discharge should seek medical help, the advisory said.
While the exact number of conjunctivitis is yet to be ascertained in Ri Bhoi district, several schools are temporarily closing in order to prevent the spread of infection.
In West Khasi Hills, roughly 20 cases were reported at the Nongstoiñ Civil Hospital.
