Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) confirms an outbreak of conjunctivitis (red eye) disease in schools across the Kampala metropolitan area.
In a letter dated March 13, addressed to all head teachers and principals of government and private education institutions in Kampala, the Authority states they’ve been alerted by the Director of Public Health and Environment about the outbreak.
“Some schools have reported cases,” reads the letter by Mr Charles Bonnie Maginot, Acting Education Director.
The letter instructs immediate reactivation of infection prevention measures in schools, including frequent handwashing with water and soap, and avoiding eye touching or rubbing.
Mr. Maginot advises against shaking hands and close contact, also stressing the importance of screening visitors.
“Report suspected cases to the nearest health facility or call our toll-free line, 0800299000,” he urges, mentioning forthcoming comprehensive guidelines from the Director of Public Health and Environment.
Conjunctivitis, caused by a virus, is contagious but typically resolves within a week without medical intervention.
Symptoms include redness, pain, irritation, swelling of the eye lining, and watery eyes.