KWAZULU-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane has urged the public to avoid pink eye infection by practising good personal hygiene, such as regular hand-washing and avoiding the sharing of face cloths, eye cosmetics or pillows.
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She said that at least 161 cases of pink eye have been confirmed in various parts of eThekwini District, since February 26. Pink eye is an inflammation of the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and eyeball. This membrane is called the conjunctiva. The infection is spread by viruses, bacteria, allergens, fungi and other infections. Simelane said a few basic hygiene practices can help contain the spread of the disease.
“Now that we have confirmed cases of pink eye in the district, we are urging those who have its symptoms not to sit at home but to visit their nearest clinic. During the era of Covid–19, we developed several habits that promoted good hygiene, such as regular hand-washing with soap and water or sanitiser. Those are some of the things we need to re-orient ourselves with,” she said.
Prevention of pink eye:
- Do not touch your eyes with your hands.
- Wash your hands often.
- Use a clean towel and washcloth daily.
- Do not share towels or washcloths.
- Change your pillowcases often.
- Throw away old eye cosmetics, such as mascara.
- Do not share eye cosmetics or personal eye-care items.
- Schools should allow infected children to remain in school once any therapy is implemented, except when viral or bacterial conjunctivitis is accompanied by systemic signs of illness.
- Infected students should refrain from attending school if they are unable to avoid close contact with other students.
- Those infected or suspecting infections are encouraged to consult the nearest healthcare facility or to see a doctor as soon as possible.
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