Summary:

• The Ministry of Health reported four cases of Red Eye Disease in Nairobi and Kisii, cautioning the public about its rapid spread through contaminated hands. The disease is likely caused by Adenovirus, with minimal long-term complications.

The Ministry of Health has reported three cases of Red Eye Disease in Nairobi, with an additional case recorded in Kisii, according to Public Health Director General Patrick Amoth. Amoth explained that the disease is transmitted through touching the eyes with contaminated hands and urged caution among Kenyans.

In a statement, Amoth stated, “The Ministry of Health would like to inform the public about an outbreak of an eye disease characterized by watery red eyes in the coastal region of Kenya (Mombasa, Malindi, and Lamu).” He attributed the likely cause to Adenovirus, emphasizing its rapid spread but assuring that it rarely leads to long-term complications and is generally self-limiting, not warranting alarm.

Despite describing the disease as self-limiting, Amoth highlighted the importance of seeking urgent medical attention for individuals with severe symptoms such as redness, discharge, swelling, and bleeding. He advised against touching the eyes of infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

Amoth provided guidelines for the general public to prevent contamination, emphasizing frequent handwashing and avoiding touching the face. He specifically cautioned against sharing towels with family members affected by the disease.

In a related development, Tanzanian health authorities issued an alert last week after recording 869 cases of the disease in a month, primarily in the commercial city of Dar es Salaam.