Health officials along the Kenyan coast are currently investigating a surge in cases of a viral eye infection, commonly known as conjunctivitis. The affected regions are primarily Mombasa and Kilifi counties, as reported by local media.
Residents are being urged to prioritize hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing, avoiding the sharing of personal items, and refraining from touching their eyes to curb the spread of the infection.
A similar alert was raised in Tanzania last week, where health authorities recorded 869 cases of conjunctivitis in a month, with a significant concentration in the commercial city of Dar es Salaam.
Conjunctivitis, often referred to as red eye disease, results from the inflammation of the protective membrane covering the eyes. Allergies or infections are common causes of this condition, which manifests with symptoms such as redness, swelling, tearing, or itching of the eyes. Some individuals may also experience eye discharge.
As health authorities in coastal Kenya and Tanzania address the situation, it is crucial for residents to stay vigilant about personal hygiene practices to mitigate the further spread of the infection.
