NAKHON RATCHASIMA, 20 August 2014 – The Office of Disease Prevention and Control Region 5 has warned members of the public to be aware of eye infections during the monsoon season.
Conjunctivitis or “pink eye” has affected an increasing number of people in Thailand due to the heat and humidity during the season. The infection causes an inflammation of the outer eye membrane and has been on the rise recently.
Dr. Teerawat Walaisatian, the ODC Region 5 Director, has disclosed that nationwide about 80,000 patients are suffering with conjunctivitis. The youngest infected was a 28 day-old infant. Parents and members of the public are advised to be extra cautious and maintain good hygiene.
With the monsoon rains arriving in Thailand, people across the country are advised to protect themselves against a host of seasonal illnesses.
The Office of Disease Prevention and Control is already reporting a rise in the number of patients with the pink eye condition.
Members of the public should take precautions to avoid contracting the disease and have good medical coverage for additional protection.
Ophthalmologists have warned that people who wear contact lenses for extended periods are particularly susceptible to allergic papillary conjunctivitis, which develops as a result of an allergic reaction.
The following tips help prevent the spread of pinkeye:
- Wash your hands often.
- Do not share towels, linen, pillows, or handkerchiefs. Use clean linen, towels, and washcloths daily.
- When in the wind, heat, or cold, wear eye protection to prevent eye irritation.
- Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals.
- Do not use the same towel when wiping tears or discharge from the eyes, to avoid reinfecting yourself from the bacteria or virus on the towel.
- Children should refrain from playing in stagnant water and remain indoors.
