The Ghana Optometric Association, GOA is advising the public to report cases of Acute Hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, popularly called “Apollo,” to health facilities.
A statement signed by the National Secretary of the association, Dr . Yaw Osei Akoto, indicates infection is surging in most communities across the country as most optometrists and other eye care professionals are reporting cases in their practices.
Apollo is an inflammation of the thin transparent layer governing the white part of the eye, caused by viruses such as enterovirus 70.
The infection is characterized by signs and symptoms such as profuse tearing of the eyes, watery discharges, pain in the eyes, and sandy sensation amongst others.
As part of the treatment the statement says, the infection is self-limit, eye drops are prescribed to prevent bacterial infection and also limit severe inflammatory signs that may present with the conjunctivitis.The Association is urging the public to avoid touching or rubbing their eyes, frequently wash hands with soap and water, discard tissues used in cleaning the eyes, and stay away from school, the workplace, or any social gathering as a way of preventing others from being infected.
The statement entreated individuals to refrain from using seawater to treat Apollo, instilling human breast milk in the eyes, self-medicate, or applying herbal preparation in the eye.
It encouraged infected people not to panic but to seek early eye care from health centres to prevent its spread and possible complications.
