Outbreak of eye disease raises concerns in Colombo

• Redness in one or both eyes, itching, excessive tears, headaches, sensitivity to light, and dry eyes are the symptoms  
•  Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding touching eyes are the precautions  to minimize the risk of infection

 By Sheain Fernandopulle

The Colombo Municipality’s (CMC) Health Department has taken precautionary measures to close classes of several schools to combat the spread of an eye disease called ‘Conjunctivitis” within the city limits.   

Accordingly, classes in three grades of the Kotahena Central College have been temporarily closed till next Friday.   

A statement from the CMC revealed that approximately 100 students from the Kotahena Madhya Maha Vidyalaya have fallen victim to the contagious eye disease.   
Consequently, all classes for the 6th, 7th, and 8th Grades at the school have been suspended.   

Speaking on the matter, Colombo’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ruwan Wijemuni said the Colombo Municipal Council has identified the disease as conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye.   

“It is believed to be spreading rapidly in schools located in Colombo West, Colombo Central, Colombo North and Borella areas under the council’s jurisdiction,” he said.  
Dr. Wijemuni requested people not to panic over this disease as it is not fatal.  

Health officials have listed several symptoms associated with this disease, including redness in one or both eyes, itching, excessive tears, headaches, sensitivity to light, and dry eyes.   
If children are experiencing these symptoms for more than five days parents are urged to seek immediate medical attention from an Ophthalmologist.   
The Colombo Municipal Council also urges residents to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding touching their eyes, to minimize the risk of infection.  
-Health officials have listed several symptoms associated with this disease, including redness in one or both eyes, itching, excessive tears, headaches, sensitivity to light, and dry eyes