8 ‘red eye’ outbreaks in Hong Kong recorded in 2018 so far
The outbreaks of acute infectious conjunctivitis recorded in the first seven months of 2018 are more than the total of 2016 and 2017 combined
Eight acute infectious conjunctivitis (ACJ) outbreaks were recorded in the first seven months of this year, one more than the total number for 2016 and 2017 combined, the Department of Health said on Thursday.
According to the latest edition of Communication Diseases Watch, the online bi-weekly publication by the department’s Centre for Health Protection, each outbreak affected at least three and up to 24 people.
Usually known as ‘red eye’, acute infectious conjunctivitis (ACJ) can be easily passed on to others. It is transmitted through direct or indirect contact with discharge from the eyes or upper respiratory tract of infected people.
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In the past four years, a total of 27 outbreaks were recorded. Almost half of the cases (12 outbreaks) occurred in kindergartens or child care centres.
Three outbreaks were found in primary schools, two in homes for the elderly, one each in a private household and hospital, and the remaining eight in other institutions.
To prevent ACJ, the public is advised to observe personal hygiene and minimise hand-to-eye contact. “If such contact is unavoidable, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after contact with the eyes,” the department said.
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It also asked people to avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, toiletries, and pillowcases with others, and wash them in hot water and detergent.
In addition, they should avoid wearing eye make-up and contact lenses if possible, and not share them or other items that come into contact with the eyes.
Edited by M. J. Premaratne