Durban is seeing a surge in cases of pink eye, with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health confirming 209 reported infections.
Most of these cases are in the eThekwini region, the department said.
MEC for Health Nomagugu Simelane urged residents to take preventive measures, warning that last year there were thousands of cases around this time of year.
“We are watching it very closely because if you remember, around this time last year, we had cases rise up to 9 000,” Simelane said last week during the KZN Health Chat Podcast.
Pink eye, also known as viral conjunctivitis, is a contagious infection that spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.
According to the department, the condition is most often caused by a viral infection, and while it can be irritating, it rarely affects vision. “Treatment can help ease the discomfort of pink eye,” the department stated.
The MEC emphasised the importance of hygiene in preventing the spread of the infection. “It all goes back to hygiene, and it is very important to wash your hands and don’t touch your eyes with unclean hands,” she advised.
Symptoms of pink eye include red or pink discoloration in one or both eyes, a gritty feeling in the eyes, itching, irritation, increased tear production, and a thick discharge that may be yellow, white, or green. The infection can also cause eyelid swelling.
The department has urged residents to take precautions, including avoiding sharing personal items. “We also remind people to not share pillows, and those who use makeup should not share eyeliners and other eye makeup products. Also, do not share sunglasses,” Simelane said.
Health authorities have encouraged those experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention. “If you suspect that you have pink eye, visit your nearest healthcare facility,” the department advised in its awareness campaign.