Concern Rises As Red Eye Disease Spreads To Other Busia Sub Counties

 In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• The red eye disease, initially reported in Teso North sub-county, Busia County, has now spread to other sub-counties, including Teso South, Nambale, Matayos, and Samia.

• Busia County's eye diseases coordinator, Harriet Kavere, attributes the spread to adenovirus, urging affected individuals to seek specialized medical attention promptly, while local leaders are called upon to raise awareness and educate the public on preventive measures amidst ongoing healthcare challenges, including a nurses' strike.

The red eye disease, initially reported in Teso North sub-county of Busia County last month, has now extended its reach to several other sub-counties within the region. 

According to Harriet Kavere, the eye diseases coordinator for Busia County, cases of the disease have surfaced in Teso South, Nambale, Matayos, and Samia sub-counties, with the number of affected individuals tripling in recent weeks.

Kavere attributes the disease to a virus called adenovirus, which manifests in symptoms such as redness, swelling, and fluid discharge from the eyes. 

Afflicted individuals often experience sensations akin to having small stones in their eyes, accompanied by persistent itching. 

The virus spreads through direct contact, including handshakes, shared bedding, clothing, and even makeup use.

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Urging prompt medical attention for those exhibiting symptoms, Kavere stresses the importance of consulting specialized eye doctors for proper diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing that injections are unnecessary in managing the disease. 

She underscores the role of local leaders and government administrators, including chiefs and their assistants, in raising awareness and educating the public on preventive measures.

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Amidst the outbreak, the ongoing nurses' strike in public hospitals across Busia County, which commenced in mid-April to address grievances such as promotions and arrears, poses additional challenges to healthcare delivery. 

The strike has significantly affected health services across all public hospitals in the county, underscoring the urgency of containing the spread of the red eye disease amidst existing healthcare disruptions.