NIH issues guidelines for managing conjunctivitis

As cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” continue to surface in various regions across the country, the National Institute of Health (NIH) has released comprehensive guidelines to help individuals manage and prevent the spread of this contagious eye condition.

Conjunctivitis is characterised by symptoms such as eye irritation, itching, photophobia (sensitivity to light), and watery eyes. To curb the spread of the infection and protect public health, the NIH has offered the following recommendations:

Self-Quarantine and Avoid Contact: If you experience symptoms of conjunctivitis, the NIH advises individuals to self-quarantine and avoid close contact with others to prevent transmission.

Use Sunglasses: Those affected by photophobia are encouraged to wear sunglasses, even indoors, to reduce discomfort caused by sensitivity to light.

Practice Proper Respiratory Hygiene: Cover your nose and mouth with a disposable tissue when you cough or sneeze to prevent the virus from spreading to surfaces or other individuals.

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Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and clean water is essential. If soap and water are not readily available, the use of hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content is recommended.

Avoid Sharing Personal Items: It is crucial not to share towels, makeup, clothing, or bed sheets with anyone experiencing conjunctivitis symptoms to prevent transmission.

Keep Children at Home: To mitigate the risk of further infection spread, parents and guardians are advised to keep children with conjunctivitis symptoms at home until they recover.

Conjunctivitis can be caused by various factors, including viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants. It is highly contagious when caused by viruses or bacteria and can easily spread through direct contact with the infected person or contaminated surfaces.

The NIH emphasizes the importance of early detection, self-isolation, and adherence to these guidelines to prevent the further spread of conjunctivitis within communities. Timely intervention and responsible behavior are crucial in minimising the impact of this eye condition on public health.