Khonsa, 26th July: In response to the recent outbreak of acute conjunctivitis in the region, the District Health Society (DHS) Khonsa, in collaboration with Tirap District Administration (DA), organized an investigation cum awareness program at Rama Krishna Sarada Mission Girls’ School (RKSM), Khonsa today.
The program was aimed at educating the students and teaching staff about the transmission, prevention, and management of acute conjunctivitis to curb its further spread in the community.
During the event, DC Tirap Hento Karga addressed the gathering and emphasized the significance of personal hygiene in mitigating the spread of the infection. He urged everyone to take individual responsibility in breaking the chain of infection by maintaining social distance and practicing good hygiene. The DC further stated that closing down schools would not be a viable solution, as it could adversely impact academics. Instead, he stressed the importance of collective efforts to combat the disease.
DMO Tirap, Dr. N. Lowang, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the transmission and prevention of acute conjunctivitis. She advised the attendees to refrain from touching their eyes or face unnecessarily and to wash their hands frequently, at least once every hour. Additionally, she cautioned against sharing personal items such as handkerchiefs, towels, and cosmetics, which can aid in the transmission of the virus.
Dr. P. Rakshit, the District Surveillance Officer, shed light on the natural course of the viral infection, explaining that acute conjunctivitis typically resolves on its own within a week or two. He clarified that specific antiviral medications for conjunctivitis are not available; however, symptomatic treatment can be administered to manage fever, eye pain, and discomfort. He also suggested the use of tear eye drops to alleviate eye irritation.
