THE OUTBREAK of acute conjunctivitis (pink eye) appears to be worsening, official figures are showing.
This, as available statistics from the Ministry of Health indicate an increase in the number of cases.
The Ministry's public relations department told The Gleaner yesterday that 284 cases have been reported up to July 26, compared to 94 cases being recorded up to July 19 and 45 by July 12, 2003. Manchester, Portland and St. Ann are the parishes most affected.
These figures would be in addition to the numerous cases that have gone unreported as many of those infected are not seen by a doctor.
WIDESPREAD
A pink eye outbreak was announced by the Ministry almost three weeks ago. It has affected both children and adults in several parishes across all four health regions.
Health officials have warned that the viral eye infection is very contagious and usually spreads rapidly in schools, workplaces and nurseries.
Health officials are urging infected individuals to visit a doctor and to not attend crowded places such as nurseries, schools, pools or the workplace.
Meanwhile, other persons must avoid contact with affected individuals because the infection is contagious for at least seven days.
Hand-to-eye contact should also be minimised and hands should be washed immediately after touching the eyes, the Ministry said.
Persons are being encouraged to use only the prescribed medication.
SYMPTOMS OF PINK EYE
Symptoms include redness of the eyes, watery discharge, a feeling of gravel in the eyes and swelling of the eyelids. Some persons may also experience photophobia or sensitivity or intolerance to light. Both eyes may be affected simultaneously, or the second eye may be affected a few days after the first.
