By Margret Praise Kalua

Nkhata Bay, February 25, Mana:  Nkhata Bay District Health Office (DHO) has announced that the district has recorded 73 cases of pink eye disease at Chintheche Rural Hospital since February 14, 2024.

A press statement released Friday signed by Director of Health and Social Services, Dr Topcy Mdolo, says most of the cases are from Traditional Authority (TA) Malanda with some few cases from neighbouring TAs of Malengamzoma and Fukamalaza.

Senior Health Promotion Officer for Nkhata Bay DHO, Christopher Singini, confirmed the development in an interview on Saturday.  

Singini appealed to people in the district to avoid going to public places and seek medical attention at the nearest heath facility once they notice signs and symptoms of the disease.

Signs and symptoms of the disease include pink or red eye, swelling eyelid, increased tear production, itchy eye, whitish eye watery discharge, painful eye and visual disturbance.

"There is no specific management of the disease for it is self limiting hence let us avoid sharing personal items such as bath towels, wash hands with soap frequently and avoid rubbing eyes with dirty hands," Singini said.

TA Malanda said it is unfortunate that many traditional leaders in his area are not aware of the outbreak.

"As leaders, we haven't been alerted by health authorities of the disease in the district, specifically my area. It could have been better if we were told about it earlier so that we also sensitize our people on preventive measures,” he said.

Chairperson for Nkhata Bay Pastors Fraternal, Bishop David Mkandawire, said pastors are set to take part in spreading the right messages about the disease to the people through their congregations.

He, therefore, asked people to adhere to precaution measures recommended by health authorities to contain further spread of the disease.