By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 21: With several parts of the state, especially Ri-Bhoi District, facing an onslaught of the viral conjunctivitis epidemic or “pink eye”, the Health department has sought a report from the Directorate of Health Services (MI) on the surge in conjunctivitis cases and the measures being taken to prevent the spread.
Terming it a typical monsoon eye aliment, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh on Monday said health centres across the state have been asked to remain on alert.
“We are seized of the situation and advisories have been issued,” Lyngdoh said, advising citizens not to go for self-medication.
The office of the District Medical and Health Officer, East Khasi Hills, has already issued a health advisory so as to sensitise the people and help them in thwarting the spread of the infection.
Health experts have advised people to practice good hygiene by frequently washing hands, avoid touching the eyes with unwashed hands, and maintain personal hygiene.
Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and spreads easily from one person to the other through direct contact with the eye secretion of the infected person or indirectly through contaminated objects. Symptoms include redness and swelling of the eyes, watery discharge, itching, difficulty in tolerating light and eyelids may stick together in the morning.