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Health authorities in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality of the Western North Region have confirmed an outbreak of Acute Haemorrhagic Conjunctivitis (AHC), popularly known as Apollo, and are calling on residents to observe strict hygiene practices to prevent further spread of the infection.
In a public health advisory, officials explained that Apollo is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected eye fluids or by touching contaminated surfaces and personal items such as towels, tissues, pillows, cosmetics, and eye drops.
The disease is characterized by symptoms including redness of the eyes, excessive tearing, eye irritation or pain, a gritty feeling in the eyes, swollen eyelids, sensitivity to light, and discharge that may cause the eyelids to stick together.
Residents have been advised to wash their hands frequently with soap and clean water, avoid touching or rubbing their eyes, and desist from sharing personal items that come into contact with the face.
Health officials are also urging individuals who experience symptoms to avoid schools, workplaces, and crowded areas to reduce the risk of transmission. They have encouraged affected persons to seek immediate medical attention at health facilities rather than engaging in self-medication or using unapproved eye drops and herbal remedies.
The authorities emphasized that public cooperation remains essential in controlling the outbreak, urging residents to remain vigilant, maintain good personal hygiene, and report early signs of the infection to the nearest health facility.
Story by Efua Nessa