The Ministry of Health has confirmed that many Ugandans are battling conjunctivitis (red eye) infection. This follows Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) announcing an outbreak of red eye in schools across Kampala City.
The Uganda Prison Services also revealed that over 5000 prison inmates have been diagnosed with this infection.
According to experts, conjunctivitis (red eye) is most often caused by a viral infection. It can also be caused by a bacterial infection, an allergic reaction, or, in babies, an incompletely opened tear duct.
How is red eye spread?
- During close contact (touching, shaking hands) with another person.
- By touching surfaces contaminated with bacteria or viruses, then touching your eyes before washing your hands.
- By using old eye makeup or sharing makeup that’s contaminated with bacteria or viruses.
- Through sexual contact.
Treating and preventing conjunctivitis:
- Boil water and let it cool down before gently wiping your eyelashes to clean off crusts with a clean cotton wool pad (one piece for each eye).
- Hold a cold towel over your eyes for a few minutes.
- Wash your hands regularly – this is particularly important after touching your eyes.
