Viral conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is a highly contagious eye infection that has been on the rise in the state. Mokokchung has also seen a steady increase in cases, with school-going children being the most affected.
According to Dr Renchano, an eye surgeon at Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital in Mokokchung, the reported cases of the infection since July have reached 88, with 38 cases reported in the month of August alone. She further stated that the reported number of cases only reflects those treated at the district hospital, and the actual number is higher when considering calls received and patients treated in private clinics.
Dr Renchano noted that while the earlier reported cases primarily involved children, the infection has also been spreading among adults recently. She provided examples, such as a family of 7, all of whom were infected, highlighting the highly contagious nature of the infection. She emphasized that infected individuals should be isolated and avoid sharing the same bed.
Assuring that there is no cause for alarm at the moment, Dr Renchano mentioned that additional measures would be implemented if the case count continues to rise. She underscored the importance of frequent hand washing and the avoidance of unnecessary touching or rubbing of the eyes as preventive measures.
It is worth mentioning here that, with the surge of conjunctivitis amongst the school-going children in the State, schools in four districts, namely Mon, Dimapur, Niuland, and Chumoukedima, have been shut down till 26 August.