Six schools in Busia County have been compelled to send students home due to a sudden outbreak of red-eye disease, a highly contagious eye infection. The outbreak, which began earlier this week, has rapidly spread, causing concern among parents, educators, and health officials.
The affected schools include Busia Primary School, St. Mary’s Girls School, Busibwabo Secondary School, Alupe Primary School, Nambale Boys High School, and Burumba Girls High School. The decision to send students home was made in a bid to contain the spread of the infection, which has seen a sharp increase in cases over the past few days.
Red-eye disease, also known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. The infection can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens, and is characterized by redness, itching, and tearing of the eyes. It is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected individuals or through contact with contaminated surfaces.
The Chief Health Officer of Busia County, addressed the media on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and preventive measures. “We urge all students, teachers, and parents to maintain high standards of hygiene. Regular hand washing, avoiding touching the face, and refraining from sharing personal items such as towels and eye drops are crucial in preventing the spread of this infection,” she stated.
In response to the outbreak, health officials have initiated a series of measures to control the situation. Medical teams have been dispatched to the affected schools to conduct screenings and provide treatment to those infected. Additionally, health education campaigns are being conducted to raise awareness about the disease and its prevention.
The temporary closure of the six schools has disrupted the academic calendar, with students missing out on crucial learning time. School administrators are working on alternative learning arrangements to ensure that students can continue their education remotely. Online classes and take-home assignments are being considered as potential solutions.
