BUJUMBURA, February 15th (ABP) – The Burundian Minister of Public Health and the Fight against AIDS, Dr. Lyduine Baradahana hosted a press briefing on Tuesday February 13, 2024 in Bujumbura during which she spoke on the viral conjunctivitis.
On that occasion, she indicated that Burundi is facing, during these days, an outbreak of cases of viral conjunctivitis. According to Dr. Baradahana, symptoms usually appear in one eye and quickly spread to the other; signs include eye redness, irritation, tearing and sometimes a foreign body sensation in the eye.
Viral conjunctivitis is extremely contagious and spreads quickly through direct contact with secretions from infected eyes or through contact with contaminated objects. This high contagiousness therefore requires strict application of personal hygiene measures to limit its spread, she indicated. Although not dangerous for general health, she continued to say, this eye condition has a significant impact on our national productivity.
Mrs Baradahana warns those who self-medicate, revealing that they can lead to complications while pointing out that inappropriate use of drugs without a prescription can worsen the condition and increase resistance to treatment. Furthermore, she invited Burundians to consult health professionals for advice and appropriate treatment.
Given that prevention is the best option, the Minister of Health reveals preventive measures to protect against this disease, namely frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the eyes with unwashed hands and not sharing personal objects such as towels or glasses. Baradahana also advises affected individuals to take rest and stay away from schools and workplaces until symptoms subside, which will help protect colleagues and the entire community. However, she clarified that viral conjunctivitis is not a life-threatening illness, but affects well-being and the ability to work and learn.