By: Natasha Archary
The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Department of Health has confirmed a pink eye infection outbreak has gripped the province.
At least 161 cases of pink eye have been confirmed in various parts of eThekwini Districy, and KZN MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane is uging the public to practice good personal hygience.
Simelane cautions that pink eye is contagious, and warns that children in particular are more prone to getting the eye infection.
Since 26 February the Clairwood Hospital (55), KZN Children’s Hospital (50), Cato Manor Community Health Centre (39), McCord Hospital (15) and Halley Stot Clinic (2) have all reported positive cases of pink eye.
The MEC says regular hand-washing, avoiding sharing face cloths, pillow cases, eye cosmetics and not touching the eye area can help stop the spread of pink eye.
“Now that we have confirmed cases of Pink Eye in EThekwini District, we are urging those who have its symptoms not to sit at home, but to visit their nearest clinic.
During the era of COVID – 19, we had developed a number of habits that promoted good hygiene, such as regular hand washing with soap and water or sanitizer. Those are some of the things we need to re-orient ourselves with.”
The KZN Department of Health has shared some facts about pink eye, including some of the causes and how to prevent the infection.
Some facts about pink eye:
- Pink eye is an inflammation of the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and eyeball. This membrane is called the conjunctiva.
- When small blood vessels in the conjunctiva become swollen and irritated, they’re more visible. This is what causes the whites of the eyes to appear reddish or pink. Pink eye also is called conjunctivitis.
- Pink eye is most often caused by a viral infection, also known as viral conjunctivitis, which is highly contagious.
- It also can be caused by a bacterial infection, an allergic reaction or — in babies — an incompletely opened tear duct.
- Though pink eye can be irritating, it rarely affects your vision.
- Treatment can help ease the discomfort of pink eye.
- Because pink eye can be contagious, getting an early diagnosis and taking certain precautions can help limit its spread.
Causes of pink eye:
- Viruses.
- Bacteria.
- Allergens.
- A chemical splash in the eye.
- A foreign object in the eye.
- In newborns, a blocked tear duct.
- Contact lens use
- Fungi
- Certain diseases
Prevention of pink eye
- Don’t touch your eyes with your hands.
- Wash your hands often.
- Use a clean towel and washcloth daily.
- Don’t share towels or washcloths.
- Change your pillowcases often.
- Throw away old eye cosmetics, such as mascara.
- Don’t share eye cosmetics or personal eye care items.
- Schools should allow infected children to remain in school once any therapy is implemented, except when viral or bacterial conjunctivitis is accompanied by systemic signs of illness.
- Infected students should refrain from attending school if they are unable to avoid close contact with other students.
Those infected or suspecting a pink eye infection are encouraged to consult nearest health care facility or to see a doctor as soon as possible.
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