The Ministry of Health urges the public to be on heightened alert to identify, control and prevent the spread of conjunctivitis—commonly called “red eye”—especially among children under five years of age. The disease is highly contagious and lasts from two days to three weeks.

Earlier this week, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported outbreaks in the Dominican Republic, Bahamas, Guadeloupe and Martinique. In light of the increased transmission in our neighboring states of Martinique and Guadeloupe, and considering the frequent travel to and from these states, the ministry increased surveillance and is currently implementing control measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

Consequently, the public is advised to: practice personal hygiene, especially hand hygiene and hand washing, avoid contact with discharges from the eyes and upper respiratory tracts of infected persons, and to seek medical treatment for affected eyes.

Schools, nurseries and other institutions are advised to call the Epidemiology Services Department to report cases of red eye at 4685380 within 24 hours; and avoid allowing infected children to attend school until they get well.