Dominican Republic: Nationwide conjunctivitis epidemic

Event

Health officials in the Dominican Republic declared a nationwide conjunctivitis epidemic on May 26 following a spike in reported cases. More than 8300 cases of the disease, also known as pink eye, were reported across the country in the previous three weeks, for a total of nearly 45,000 cases since the beginning of the year. Many more cases are believed to have gone unreported. Provinces with the highest rates of the disease are Monte Cristi, Dajabón, Independencia, Pedernales, Distrito Nacional, and Santo Domingo.

Context

Conjunctivitis is an eye infection where the thin membrane that covers the white of the eye and the interior of the eye lids - the conjunctiva - becomes inflamed. Symptoms include watery eyes and discharge, discomfort, and itchiness. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can be caused by bacterial or viral infections; the bacterial version is treatable with antibiotics.

Advice

Individuals in the Dominican Republic are advised to minimize contact with others (e.g. avoid handshakes) and to wash hands frequently.