Pink eye outbreak: KZN Department of Health confirms 161 cases in eThekwini
Of the 161 confirmed cases in eThekwini, Clairwood Hospital has recorded the highest number of cases with 55.
THE KZN Department of Health has reported an outbreak of pink eye or conjunctivitis in eThekwini, and the largest number of infections were reported at Clairwood Hospital. From February 26, 161 infections have been reported across various health facilities. MEC of Health, Nomagugu Simelane, is urging people to practise good hygiene and help contain the spread of the disease.
Also read: KZN Health MEC addresses concerns over shortage of meds
Cases recorded
- Clairwood Hospital: 55 cases
- KZN Children’s Hospital: 50 cases
- Cato Manor Community Health Centre: 39 cases
- McCord Hospital: 15 cases
- Halley Stott Clinic: 2 cases
Simelane emphasised again that pink eye is highly contagious and can easily be spread if precautions are not taken.
“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 COVID-19 pandemic, 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,” she said.
Understanding pink eye
Pink eye is caused by the inflammation of the transparent covering of the eyelid and eyeball, referred to as conjunctiva. This condition makes the delicate blood vessels in the eye stand out, creating a pink or reddish appearance on the eye.
Causes of pink eye
- Viral infections (most common and highly contagious)
- Bacterial infections
- Allergies
- Chemical irritants
- Foreign bodies in the eye
- Frequent use of contact lenses
- Fungal infections
- Chronic conditions
- Blockage of tear ducts in children
Prevention tips
- Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes with dirty hands.
- Frequent hand washing with soap and water.
- Wash cloths and towels daily with soap and water.
- Avoid sharing face towels, washcloths, or eye makeup.
- Change pillowcases from time to time.
- Dispose of expired eye makeup and avoid sharing personal eye care items.
The department of health issued a statement that said that schools should allow children who are infected to remain at home once treatment has been initiated. The statement further read that infected learners should refrain from attending school if they are unable to avoid close contact with other learners.
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