Meghalaya issues guidelines on how to prevent conjunctivitis

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 19, 2023

District Medical Health Officer (DMHO) East Khasi Hills district Dr Adrena Lyngdoh was informed by the medical officer in-charge of Mawlai Mawroh PHC that 20 people landed up at the PHC with conjunctivitis symptoms on August 18.

Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of a programme on Saturday, she said that in addition to the development, it was also reported that organisers of a tournament at SAI complex approached the medical officer seeking advice if it is safe for the athletes to for inter-district movement.

She said that a letter has been issued by the DMHO on August 18 issuing guidelines on conjunctivitis prevention to the PHCs, CHCs, state dispensaries, and UPHCs in an effort to enhance awareness among the community on the signs and symptoms, mode of spread, prevention and management.

When pointed out that Ri Bhoi district has many cases, Lyngdoh said that she has instructed the district surveillance officers to do the needful to create awareness.

As for the symptoms of conjunctivitis, she said, “Initially, it will start as a viral infection, it will be watery, there will be some redness and some discomfort.”

She added that if not taken care it will become more severe, where there will be swelling of the eyes and pus discharge.

Lyngdoh said that the precautionary measure is hand hygiene and not sharing personal items.

The letter issued by the DMHO to all the health centers advised that those suffering from conjunctivitis should remain isolated at home to prevent the spread of infection to others and consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 5 days.