“APOLLO” or Sporadic Conjunctivitis Cases Not an Epidemic — says Infectious Disease Scientist, Dr. Nyan

There is something called “Apollo” in Liberia! Not the Rockets or US Space Mission of the 1960s to the Moon, but something completely different! 

WHAT IS IT, THEN

It is a diseased condition of the Eyes, mainly characterized by symptoms such as the eyes being red and painful, itchy with tears and pus, and sensitive to light, among others.

Over the past few weeks, I have received information from the commumities, relatives, and colleagues reporting these symptoms which point to possible diagnosis of CONJUNCTIVITIS.

WHAT’S THE CAUSE?

Conjunctivitis is a disease of the Eyes that is caused by certain types of bacteria or viruses. In the US, it is referred, to this as “Pink-Eyes” due to the redness. It can also be caused by allergens or some other irritants that produce the above-listed general symptoms.

From a public health standpoint thus far, this does not amount to an “Epidemic” as the ordinary non-medical or non-professional may be suggesting or thinking.  

Instead, these are sporadic cases of Suspected Conjunctivitis, clinically presenting classic symptoms of bacterial origin. This can be easily spread from person-to-person or through contact with contaminated surfaces.

PUBLIC HEALTH DOs & DON’Ts!

Here is what we can do to address this Conjunctivitis, Apollo, or Pink Eyes!

(a) Wash and sanitize your hands constantly;

(b) Avoid contact with anyone showing these symptoms;

(c) Avoid self-treatment; please don’t be your own doctor;

(d) Anyone with these symptoms should isolate yourself from household members or groups;

(e) Report to the nearest healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals, when you experience these symptoms;

TREATMENT!

Conjunctivitis, once properly diagnosed, can be appropriately treated. Hence, healthcare facilities should be vigilant of such cases as well.

Again, there are no Rockets involved here and no Space Mission to the Moon; but just microbiological organisms or particles on the attack — Apollo of the Eyes!

~Dougbeh Chris Nyan, M.D.

Inventor, Infectious Disease Scientist

Public Health Expert, Medical Doctor

#PublicHealthSafety #APOLLO #NoEbola

#EyeHealth #HealthcareRighhts