Health MEC urges better hygiene amid conjunctivitis outbreak

Amid a pink eye (conjunctivitis) outbreak in eThekwini and Ugu districts, the KZN Department of Health urges citizens to take the necessary preventative measures to curb the spread.

With 1 044 cases recorded in the affected areas, Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane urges those with symptoms to seek medical treatment.

Pink eye is inflammation of the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and eyeball.

“When small blood vessels in this membrane – the conjunctiva – become swollen and irritated, they’re more visible. This causes the whites of the eyes to appear reddish or pink.”

She said, while it rarely affects vision, pink eye can cause discomfort and be contagious.

“An early diagnosis and taking certain precautions can help limit its spread,” she said.

Causes include viruses, bacteria, fungi or allergens, or even a chemical splash or foreign object in the eye.

Blocked tear ducts in newborns can also cause conjunctivitis, as can certain diseases and contact lens use.

How to prevent the spread

* 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 pillowcases often
* Throw away old eye cosmetics, such as mascara
* Don’t share eye cosmetics or personal eyecare items
* Infected pupils should refrain from attending school if they are unable to avoid close contact with others.

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