17/08/2023
Acute Haemorrhagic Conjunctivitis in Ghana
Acute Haemorrhagic Conjunctivitis is a sudden inflammation of the conjunctiva, causing redness and infection in the eye. The conjunctiva is the thin transparent tissue covering the eye. This condition can be caused by allergies, bacterial or viral infections. During the rainy season, a common form known as "Apollo" affects many West Africans, coinciding with its first epidemic during the Apollo 11 moon landing.
Signs of the Disease:
Eyelids sticking together upon waking
Intense whitish discharge throughout the day
Reddish hue in the eye
Pain, especially when looking up or at light
Soreness, grittiness, burning, redness, watery discharge, and eyelid swelling
Infection Rate:
AHC spreads rapidly, infecting both eyes within days. The condition spreads through contact, as surfaces touched by an infected person become sources of infection. Maintain hygiene to control infection rate.
Effect on the Visual System:
Difficulty with close work
Blurry vision due to discharge
Covering eyes to limit light
Eye discomfort from false sensation of foreign body (sand)
Prognosis:
AHC typically resolves on its own. Antibiotics can speed up recovery when applied topically. *Rokmer Pharma Bexamet-N is one of the most effective for treatment.*
Public Health Issue:
AHC is an annual occurrence affecting many in Ghana. Its quick spread demands prompt treatment. Avoid crowded areas when infected to limit person-to-person transmission. This impacts productivity and visual function. The Ministry of Health emphasizes education and timely treatment to boost productivity, particularly before the rainy season.
