The government has confirmed cases of Conjunctivitis in Nairobi and Kisii counties weeks after the outbreak of the disease in the coastal region.

Addressing the press on Thursday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said three cases of the disease commonly known as red eyes had been reported in Nairobi while one patient had tested positive in Kisii.

He affirmed that the government is actively addressing health emergencies in at least five counties, including Mombasa, Lamu, and Malindi.

“The government takes note of the outbreak of the red eye disease in the Coastal region, specifically in the counties of Mombasa, Lamu, and Malindi.

“A few cases have also been reported in other parts of the country, with one (1) case in Kisii and three (3) in Nairobi,” he stated.

Mwaura further urged members of the public to observe high hygiene measures to curb the spread of the disease.

“This disease, characterized by red, watery eyes, has been identified as a form of conjunctivitis, which is highly contagious but generally not severe in nature. It is important to emphasize that this condition is usually self-limiting and rarely causes long-term complications to the eyes and therefore needs not to cause alarm,” Mwaura added.

“Members of the public are advised to frequently wash their hands and keep off touching their face, disinfect high-touch surfaces and not share personal items like towels. For those affected, they are advised to self-isolate to reduce spread. Those with mild symptoms are advised to use a wet face towel over the eyes. Persons with severe symptoms (redness, discharge, swelling and bleeding) should seek urgent medical attention.”

Data from public facilities in Mombasa County shows that more than 1,000 people have so far contracted the disease. The patients include school-going children.

The infection also known as pink eye is an inflammation of the thin, clear covering of the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. The symptoms of the infection include itching, a burning sensation, and increased tearing.

The infection is caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens or irritants.

Authorities in Mombasa last week implored members of the public to wash their hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds in a bid to contain the spread of the infection.

In the absence of water and soap, one can use a hand sanitiser with at least 60 per cent alcohol to clean their hands.

Persons with conjunctivitis have been urged to avoid close contact with others and consider staying home from work or school until symptoms improve.

Polio and Rift Vally Fever

At the same time, Mwaura on Thursday also noted that the government was on high alert over the outbreak of Polio and Rift Valley Fever in the country.

This comes a week after the first human case of Rift Valley Fever was reported in Marsabit County.

Earlier, Dr Patrick Amoth, the acting director general at the Ministry of Health, had linked the outbreak of the disease to the conclusion of El-Nino rains.

“This outbreak is closely associated with the conclusion of El-Nino rains, leading to a surge in the mosquito population and an increased transmission of vector-borne diseases,” Dr Amoth said in a circular to all County Directors of Health, through the Chief Executive Officer, Council of Governors, dated January 24, 2024.

All the counties have been put on high alert for the potential spread of the disease.

“The public are further advised to avoid handling and consumption of uninspected meat, use protective equipment when handling animal births, discard animal stillbirths and dispose of carcasses,” Mwaura said on Thursday.

“Individuals experiencing fever are advised to visit nearest health facility for assessment.”