The red eye disease, which broke out in Teso North Sub-County, Busia County, last month, has now spread to several other sub-counties within the region.
Harriet Kavere, the Busia County eye diseases coordinator, reported that the disease has now been detected in Teso South, Nambale, Matayos, and Samia, with the number of infected individuals tripling.
The disease, caused by the adenovirus, leads to symptoms such as red, swollen eyes that discharge fluids and a sensation of small stones in the eyes, causing constant itching.
Kavere explained that the disease spreads through direct contact, including shaking hands, sharing beds, touching infected clothes, and using the same makeup.
She urged those exhibiting symptoms to seek medical attention from specialized eye doctors rather than general practitioners due to the disease’s various stages. “An injection is not needed,” she emphasized.
Kavere also called on local leaders and government administrators to educate the public about the disease and containment measures, stressing the importance of awareness to prevent further spread.
The outbreak coincides with an ongoing strike by nurses in public hospitals in Busia County, which began in mid-April. The nurses are striking to compel the county government to address grievances such as promotions and payment of arrears, resulting in a significant disruption of health services in all public hospitals in the county.
