Over 500 people have been treated at the Ayod Primary Healthcare Centre (PHCC) following an outbreak of red eye disease in the Jonglei State last week.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Sunday, the Ayod County Health Director, William Duoth, said most of the residents had contracted the eye infection, with the majority not receiving treatment.
“In every five people one meets, three have red eye disease. The outbreak started last week and so far over 500 cases have been reported to the Ayod PHCC and got treated,” he said.
Duoth said they were lacking medication to attend to all the patients and urged them to observe personal hygiene as a precautionary measure.
The Ayod County Commissioner, James Chuol Jiek, said they were worried because they had previously not heard of the eye infection and appealed for medical intervention.
“There are many cases of red eye disease in our county affecting the elderly and children and even our cattle. The entire county is affected. We are appealing to our Health Ministry and its partners to provide necessary medical intervention,” he said.
Red eye disease, also known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the thin, clear tissues that cover the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. It can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, allergic reactions, or exposure to irritants like chemicals or foreign bodies.
Conjunctivitis is typically transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, or by respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
The preventive measures include regular washing of hands with water and soaps after coming into contact with an infected person, avoiding touching or rubbing one’s eye and avoiding sharing towels, washcloths, eye makeups, or other personal items.
The infected are advised to stay at home and seek medical attention.