Conjunctivitis (red eye): Signs, Symptoms, Prevention and Treatment

On 14 March 2024, the Ministry of Health confirmed an outbreak of conjunctivitis, also known as red eyes, in Kampala and prison facilities in parts of the country. The outbreak was indicated in several schools in the capital and eight prison facilities, with over 1700 cases recorded at the time.

Conjunctivitis, although often regarded as a minor ailment, can spread rapidly and cause discomfort. This article explains conjunctivitis, its causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment methods.

What is Conjunctivitis/red eye?

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the white part of the eyeball and lines the inner surface of the eyelids. This inflammation causes the blood vessels in the eye to become more visible, giving the characteristic red or pink appearance.

Conjunctivitis can spread rapidly and is quick to infect children, who then pass it on to adults. Close contact or sharing personal items with infected people can pass the illness on more easily.

Causes of Conjunctivitis/red eye

Conjunctivitis can be caused by various factors, including:

Viral Infections: Viruses such as adenovirus, herpes simplex virus, and others can cause viral conjunctivitis. This type of conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze.

Bacterial Infections: Bacterial conjunctivitis is often caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae. It can result from poor hygiene practices, such as touching the eyes with unwashed hands or sharing contaminated items like towels or makeup.

Allergic Reactions: Allergens such as pollen, dust, pet dander, medicines, or certain chemicals can trigger allergic conjunctivitis in susceptible individuals. This type of conjunctivitis is not contagious but can cause significant discomfort and itching.

Irritants: Exposure to irritants like smoke, pollution, chlorine in swimming pools, or harsh chemicals can lead to irritant conjunctivitis. Unlike infectious conjunctivitis, this type is not caused by pathogens and typically resolves once the irritant is removed.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis/ red eye

The symptoms of conjunctivitis may vary depending on the underlying cause but commonly include:

• Redness in the whites of the eyes
• Itchiness or irritation
• Watery or mucous discharge
• Grittiness or foreign body sensation
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Light sensitivity
• Crusting or sticking of eyelids, especially upon waking

How to prevent conjunctivitis/ red eye

To control the spread of the disease, the Ministry of Health, with support from partners, has initiated several measures. These include promoting personal hygiene and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) activities in affected schools.

The ministry is also strengthening surveillance in Kampala, managing and treating affected individuals, sensitizing the public about the disease and prevention measures, and orienting health workers on investigating and responding to cases of red eye disease.

The Ministry of Health urges the public to adhere to the following preventive measures:

• Maintain high sanitation standards.
• Wash hands frequently with clean water and soap, especially after touching the eyes or coming into contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes with unwashed hands.
• Avoid direct contact with infected individuals, particularly touching the eyes and shaking hands.
• Refrain from sharing items with infected persons, such as pillows, washcloths, towels, eye drops, or eyeglasses and make-up.
• Don’t use the same product/ eyedrop for your infected and non-infected eye

Treatment of Conjunctivitis/red eye

The treatment of conjunctivitis depends on its underlying cause. If you suspect that you're experiencing symptoms of conjunctivitis, it's important to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility.

After receiving appropriate treatment, it's advisable to go back to the health facility for review after a few days to ensure that you're responding well to the treatment regimen.

Refrain from self-medication, as it can potentially worsen your condition and compromise your vision.

The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report all suspected cases to the nearest health facilities or call the Ministry of Health toll line on 0800-100-066.

Source: Ministry of Health