By HABIBA ISA MAINAKAINA

Conjunctivitis has reached epidemic proportions in Potiskum and surrounding communities, prompting health authorities to urge residents to strengthen personal hygiene measures to curb its spread.

The Medical Director of Specialist Hospital, Potiskum, Dr Ayuba Zakar, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday while confirming reported cases at the facility.

According to him, conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the eye caused by a virus and is spreading rapidly across the area.

“The condition has assumed an epidemic dimension in the area. It is widespread.

“However, we cannot give you the exact number of reported cases at the moment,” he said.

Zakar explained that the infection was highly contagious and spread mainly through direct contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces, making strict hygiene practices essential for prevention.

He urged residents to take precautionary measures, including avoiding close contact with infected persons, washing their hands regularly and maintaining proper personal hygiene at all times.

“People need to take precautions by avoiding close contact with infected persons, maintaining proper hygiene, and using hand sanitisers as frequently as possible,” he said.

The medical director also advised infected individuals to stay indoors whenever possible to minimise transmission and protect other members of the community from contracting the disease.

While acknowledging the rapid spread of the infection, Zakar reassured residents that most cases were mild and recoverable without causing permanent damage to the eyes.

“Most people recover from conjunctivitis (pink eye) completely with no lasting effects.

“However, some types can leave temporary or rare long-term issues if the infection spreads or is severe,” he explained. (NAN)

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