The ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of Conjunctivitis (Red Eyes) in Gulu district.
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the (conjunctiva), the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye.
A statement released by the ministry indicates that according to surveillance and laboratory reports, 798 suspected cases have so far been reported within Gulu Main prison, Pece prison, Gulu Remand (Juvenile) Home and Gulu Main Police Station.
Cases of conjunctivitis were reported within Lugore Health Center II, Labworomor Health Center III, Patiko Health Center III, Lukodi Health Center II, Punena Health Center II, Coope Health Center II, and Bardege Health Center III within the month of December 2016.
“50 samples have been picked for a whole range of bacterial and viral laboratory testing both within and outside Uganda, while surveillance efforts by the district and ministry of Health teams continue,” part of the statement reads.
Some of the symptoms of conjunctivitis are; redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid, increased amount of tears, thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes especially after sleep, Itchy eyes, blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light.
Conjunctivitis is mainly caused by bacteria or viruses and can spread easily from person to person, but is not a serious health risk if diagnosed and treated promptly. Among new-born babies however, conjunctivitis should be reported to a doctor immediately, as it could be a vision-threatening infection.
Ministry of Health is already undertaking a number of measures to control the spread of the disease. These include promoting WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) activities within all detention facilities in Gulu district, active case search for red eye in the prisons, health facilities and the community.
A Rapid Response Team to support the district response structures has also been established among other activities. The ministry is also appealing to members of the public to maintain high sanitation standards, and avoid direct contact with people infected with the disease.