Mauritius ‘pink eye’ outbreak: More than 1200 cases in past three weeks
The Mauritius Ministry of Health and Quality of Life issued an update on the conjunctivitis, or pink eye outbreak on the island in the Indian Ocean.
Bad case of pink eye
Image/Video Screen Shot
According to health officials, 372 cases were reported the week of Apr. 11, 463 cases were reported the week of April 18, while last week (week of Apr. 25) saw an additional 407 cases.
Health officials recommend the public take the following precautions: avoid close contact with uninfected people, wash hands frequently, avoid rubbing eyes and do not share eye drops with others.
For uninfected people: avoid touching the eyes with unwashed hands, use a towel for personal use and wash hands frequently.
Pink eye, or Conjunctivitis, is a common eye ailment caused by an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the clear, thin membrane that covers the white portion of the eyes as well as the inner surface of the eyelids.
The three common causes of pink eye are viral, bacterial and allergic. The symptoms of each form are listed below:
Viral Conjunctivitis Symptoms
• Watery eyes accompanied with discharge are usual.
• Discomfort in the eye with itchiness maybe present.
• The infection usually affects one eye but can move to both.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis Symptoms
• Watery eyes followed with yellow or green discharge are natural occurrences.
• Irritation can be found along with an itchy feeling.
• The infection usually starts with one eye and can spread to the other.
Allergic Conjunctivitis Symptoms
• Heavy tearing, discomfort, and itchiness affecting both eyes are especially likely.
Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are very contagious. Only bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated withantibiotics.
