34 cases of pink eye recorded on VG

The government said 34 cases of conjunctivitis, which is commonly known as pink eye, have been recorded on the island of Virgin Gorda.

Residents are therefore being urged to practice good hygiene to minimise the spread of the infection.
Public Health Officer in charge of surveillance Athelene Linton said day-care and pre-school operators are to sanitise toys, utensils, and children play area daily to minimise the spread.

“Parents are asked to keep their child or children at home if they have signs and symptoms of the conjunctivitis until the illness has been resolved,” Linton continued.

“Reporting sites are also encouraged to report suspected cases to the surveillance Unit to facilitate prevention and control activities.”

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the eye, which is caused by a bacterial or viral infection or an allergic reaction. The most common symptoms are redness and itchiness in one or both eyes.

Other symptoms include swelling of the eye lids, production of excessive tears, clear and yellow discharge that forms a crust during the night.

The public health officer stated that proper hygiene is the best way to control the spread of the infection.

She also advised persons to avoid touching their eyes with their hands, and to wash hands thoroughly and frequently.

“Towels, pillow cases, and washcloths are to be changed daily – and avoid sharing these items with others. Discard eye cosmetics and avoid using anyone else’s eye cosmetics or personal eye care items,” added the Government Information Service.

Persons are also urged to see a doctor immediately if they suspect that they have contracted the infection.