A conjunctivitis, or “pink eye” outbreak in the Thailand northeastern province of Bueng Kan has prompted health authorities to take measures against the communicable disease.
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According to a National News Bureau of Thailand report Tuesday, Provincial public health officer, Dr. Paisarn Worasatit has revealed that a total of 1,751 cases of pink eye were reported during January 1st to August 25th in the province of some 400,000.
Members of the public are advised to avoid contracting the disease by washing hands often, avoiding rubbing eyes with dirty hands and not sharing towels with others.
Pink eye, or Conjunctivitis, is a common eye ailment caused by an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the clear, thin membrane that covers the white portion of the eyes as well as the inner surface of the eyelids.
The three common causes of pink eye are viral, bacterial and allergic. The symptoms of each form are listed below:
Viral Conjunctivitis Symptoms
• Watery eyes accompanied with discharge are usual.
• Discomfort in the eye with itchiness maybe present.
• The infection usually affects one eye but can move to both.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis Symptoms
• Watery eyes followed with yellow or green discharge are natural occurrences.
• Irritation can be found along with an itchy feeling.
• The infection usually starts with one eye and can spread to the other.
Allergic Conjunctivitis Symptoms
• Heavy tearing, discomfort, and itchiness affecting both eyes are especially likely.
Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are very contagious. Only bacterial conjunctivitis can be treated with antibiotics. For more infectious disease news and information, visit and “like” the Infectious Disease News Facebook page
