Health authorities in South Sudan have announced an outbreak of conjunctivitis, commonly known as Red Eye disease, prompting a public health alert. The disease was initially identified in travelers entering the country through the Nimule border from Uganda, where similar cases had been reported. It has since spread to the capital city.

Reports from health workers at the Nimule border indicate that surveillance has been intensified at major points of entry to identify suspected cases. To date, a total of 382 cases have been screened, with 297 identified at the Nimule point of entry and an additional 85 cases at the main hospital in Nimule.

The public is urged to avoid crowded places to mitigate the spread of the disease, which is characterized by the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the eyeball and inner surface of the eyelids. Conjunctivitis can be caused by viral or bacterial infections and is highly contagious.

Transmission can occur through direct contact with an infected person, or by sharing personal items like towels or pillowcases that have come into contact with the infected individual. Symptoms include swelling, irritation of the conjunctiva, and a gritty feeling in the eyes.

Authorities emphasize the importance of frequent hand washing with soap and water and maintaining good personal hygiene to prevent the spread of conjunctivitis.