The Ministry of Health has assigned specialists to address a recent increase in reported cases of conjunctivitis, often referred to as “pink eye”. MoH
The Ministry of Health has assigned specialists to address a recent increase in reported cases of conjunctivitis, often referred to as “pink eye”.
Ministry experts are offering follow-up treatment to sufferers and conducting public education outreach campaigns, in order to prevent the further spread of infections.
The ministry warned in an October 19 press release that it has discovered a significant number of new cases of conjunctivitis in several provinces.
It said the emergency response team, provincial health departments, referral hospitals and health centres are monitoring the situation and providing treatment to those who need it, as well as educating the public in order to prevent the spread of the disease in the community.
“Symptoms of conjunctivitis include pink or red colouring in the whites of the eyes, swollen eyelids, extreme sensitivity to light and an excess of tear production,” it explained.
The ministry said pink eye has two major causes: viral or bacterial infections. It is easily and rapidly spread from one person to another. The best way to protect yourself, or the risk of infecting others, is frequent hand washing.
Neang Mao Chea, an ophthalmologist at the Takeo Provincial Eye Hospital, urged precautions as pink eye cases are on the rise.
“I call on anyone with eye problems to visit a specialist hospital. Even people who do not have any symptoms should have an eye examination once a year, because the eyes are one of the most important organs we possess,” he said.
The ministry’s notice suggested that people wash their hands after contact with infected patients and avoid sharing household items like blankets and pillows with them. They should also keep their distance, as the infection can be spread through coughs or sneezes.
It explained that most cases of conjunctivitis are mild and usually resolve themselves within seven to 14 days without the need for treatment and with no long-term complications. It cautioned, however, that some cases may take up to three weeks to heal.
In some cases, prescription antibiotic drops may reduce the duration of infection and the likelihood of spreading the infection to others.
The ministry’s Department of Communicable Disease Control (CDC) recently reported 93 mild cases of conjunctivitis in Ratanakkiri province’s O’Yadav district.
