By Samuel Duncan & Aliko Munde, Mana:
Nkhotakota District Health Office has said it is working closely with relevant stakeholders to control the rise in cases of viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as ‘pink eye’.
The district joins Karonga and Chitipa, which have also registered cases.
In Nkhotakota, the highly contagious disease has been reported across various age groups within Matiki and Nkhunga health centres’ catchment areas in the district’s northern part, according to a statement signed by Director of Health and Social Services Jacob Kafulafula.
He says, while viral conjunctivitis is typically not a severe condition, it is highly contagious and can spread rapidly especially where hygiene is a problem.
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“People must seek medical attention the moment they observe signs and symptoms of the condition,” Kafulafula said.
In Chitipa, 30 cases have been registered in two days, few weeks after Karonga announced the outbreak of the condition.
In a statement released on Wednesday, acting Director of Health and Social Services for Chitipa District Council, Victor Matumbo, said the disease is spreading at an alarming rate.
Matumbo also appealed to residents of the border district to seek medical attention once they notice signs and symptoms of the condition.
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Signs and symptoms for the disease include pink or red discolouration of the white part of the eye, swelling of the eye lining, increased tear production, itching, eye discharge, eye pain and visual disturbance.
“Let us avoid sharing personal items, such as clothes and hand towels. Wash hands with soap frequently or use hand sanitiser and stop rubbing eyes with unclean hands,” Matumbo said.
Senior Chief Mwabulambya of Chitipa called on health authorities to come in and save the situation, which he said is worrisome.
“It is a disease that we have never seen in our lifetime,” he said.
