The Health Minister of the 90th Students’ Guild at Makerere University has confirmed the presence of red eye disease at the hill.
Nsamba Joseph, the health minister has thus issued a notice regarding the disease.
“Gallant Makerereans, I regret to inform you that Kampala is currently experiencing an outbreak of conjunctivitis commonly known as red eye. It has come to my attention that many students are already affected.”
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent layer of the tissue that covers the inner surface of the eyelid and the white part of the eye.
According to Nsamba, it typically presents with the following signs and symptoms;
- 1. Redness
- 2. Itching
- 3. Discharge and excessive tearing
- 4. Swelling of the eyelids
- 5. Photophobia- increased sensitivity to light.
The minister went on to share preventative measures used to combat its spread;
- In case of the above symptoms, stay home and away from work, school and any othersocial gatherings to prevent spread of the infection.
- Maintain proper hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap and water.
- Refrain from sharing items such as towels, handkerchiefs, pillows, or any other item that may come into contact with your eyes.
- Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as door knobs and devices.
- Avoid shaking hands.
Treatment
- Avoid self-medication and in case you develop any of the above signs and symptoms, seek immediate treatment.
- Come to the university hospital or any recognized health facility or callministry of health toll free number 0800-100-066.
