Correspondent
Guwahati, July 24, 2023: Longding district in Arunachal Pradesh is taking precautionary measures after an outbreak of conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye," in the Kanubari sub-division. To prevent the further spread of this highly contagious disease, the Longding Deputy Commissioner, Bani Lego, has issued a circular ordering the temporary closure of schools in the Kanubari and Lawnu educational blocks until July 29.
Conjunctivitis is caused by various viruses and is characterized by symptoms such as redness, itching, excessive tearing, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. The disease can easily spread through direct or indirect contact with infected individuals' eye secretions, contaminated objects, or respiratory droplets.
Health authorities are urging the public to take preventive measures, including frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the eyes, maintaining personal hygiene, disinfecting surfaces, and isolating infected individuals.
The decision to close the schools comes after a report from the Kanubari block education officer (BEO). However, the exact number of affected students has not been disclosed yet. Moreover, there have been reports of suspected conjunctivitis outbreaks in several schools in the neighboring West Siang district, raising concerns and prompting heightened vigilance in the region.