Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pinkeye, has spread widely across Da Nang in recent weeks.  Although conjunctivitis is usually benign and easily treated, it can significantly affect the daily lives of those who are affected.

According to the latest statistics released by the city’s Eye Hospital, 376 cases of conjunctivitis were reported in the city during August.  Since early September, there have been another 424 cases, 80% of whom are children under 15 years old.  The numbers have doubled when compared with the first few months of the year.  In particular, the city has seen a marked increase in the number of cases since July. 

The head of the hospital’s Eye Department, Dr Nguyen Van Khoi, said that pinkeye often occurs in the rainy season, and it can be directly transmitted from one infected person to another.  He noted that both the viral and bacterial types are very contagious, and they are spread through direct or indirect contact with the eye secretions of someone who is already infected. 

Dr Khoi advised that infected people should visit an ophthalmologist for an examination and treatment because it can sometimes be serious or signify a severe underlying systemic disease.

He added that patients, especially children, should wash their hands often and try not to touch their eyes to reduce the risk of catching or spreading the infection.