–Expert Says, Calls Cases Sporadic Conjunctivitis
Monrovia: Infectious disease scientist Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan has dismissed suggestions that recent cases of conjunctivitis—locally known as “Apollo”—constitute an epidemic, describing them instead as sporadic infections that can be easily managed with proper hygiene and prompt medical attention.
Dr. Nyan, a medical doctor and public health expert, said in a statement that communities, relatives and colleagues have reported symptoms consistent with conjunctivitis over the past few weeks, but that the cases do not amount to an outbreak.
“From a public health standpoint thus far, this does not amount to an ‘epidemic’ as the ordinary non-medical or non-professional may be suggesting or thinking,” Dr. Nyan said. “Instead, these are sporadic cases of suspected conjunctivitis, clinically presenting classic symptoms of bacterial origin.”
Conjunctivitis is a condition of the eyes characterized by redness, pain, itching, tearing, pus, and sensitivity to light. It is caused by certain types of bacteria or viruses, and can also result from allergens or other irritants. In the United States, the condition is commonly referred to as “pink eye” because of the redness it causes.
Dr. Nyan noted that the infection spreads easily from person to person or through contact with contaminated surfaces.
To curb the spread of the infection, Dr. Nyan urged the public to wash and sanitize hands regularly, to avoid contact with anyone showing symptoms, and to refrain from self-treatment by not acting as one’s own doctor.
He also advised anyone with symptoms to isolate from household members and groups, and to report to the nearest healthcare facility, including clinics and hospitals, upon experiencing symptoms. He added that conjunctivitis can be appropriately treated once properly diagnosed, and called on healthcare facilities to remain vigilant for such cases.
Dr. Nyan, who is also an inventor, closed his statement with a lighthearted note distinguishing the eye infection from the historic U.S. space missions that share its name. “Again, there are no rockets involved here and no space mission to the moon; but just microbiological organisms or particles on the attack—Apollo of the eyes,” he said.
