The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has officially acknowledged the outbreak of conjunctivitis, commonly known as red eye disease, within schools across the Kampala metropolitan area. In a communication dated March 13, addressed to all head teachers and principals of government and private educational institutions, the Authority informed them of the concerning situation.
The letter, signed by Mr. Charles Bonnie Maginot, the Acting Director of Education and Social Services, highlighted the alert issued by the Director of Public Health and Environment regarding the outbreak. Cases have already been reported in several schools and educational institutions, prompting urgent action.
“In the interim, you are accordingly guided by our health teams to re-activate the existing infection prevention measures in schools such as frequent handwashing with water and soap, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes,” the letter advised.
Mr. Maginot emphasized the importance of preventive measures, including avoiding handshakes and close contact, as well as implementing visitor screening protocols. Suspected cases should be promptly reported to the nearest health facility or the toll-free line provided.
Conjunctivitis, an infection caused by a virus, is highly contagious but typically resolves within a week without medical intervention. Its symptoms include redness, pain, irritation, swelling, and watering of the eyes.
The Director of Public Health and Environment is expected to issue comprehensive guidelines for managing the outbreak in due course. As the authorities and health experts work to contain the spread of the disease, vigilance and adherence to preventive measures are essential within the school community.
