‘No More Hand Shakes’ In Mombasa, Lamu

This follows the outbreak of an eye infection known as Viral Conjunctivitis that has been attributed to harsh climatic conditions and the prolonged dry spell in the two counties.

George Taliani, an ophthalmic clinical officer at the eye unit of the Coast General and Referral Hospital, says that the disease is highly infectious.

The infection has prompted some residents to overlook handshakes for fear of contracting it.

The virus has mainly affected students though several adults have been infected too.

Coast General and Referral Hospital, which is the biggest health facility in the region has had an influx of eye patients as hundreds visit the facility for medical check and treatment.

Mr Taliani, however, has warned patients against using the eye drop medication, a steroid which many patients are buying over the counter at chemists. He has advised the to instead visit opticians for diagnosis.

RED EYES

Viral Conjunctivitis or pinkeye is a highly contagious condition caused by adenovirus.  The condition is contagious usually 10 to 12 days from onset as long as the eyes are red.

The infection is transmitted through accidental inoculation of viral practices from the patient’s hands or by contact with infected upper respiratory droplets, fomites, or contaminated swimming pools.

Pinkeye symptoms include, redness, discharge itchy eyes, tearing and light sensitivity. The infection usually resolves spontaneously within 2 to 4 weeks.

Infected patients should avoid touching their eyes, shaking hands and sharing towels to avoid transmission.

By Benjamin Wafula