CMC warns public of the spread of eye disease in schools

October 12, 2023 at 5:03 PM

The Health Department of the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) has taken measures to prevent the spread of the eye disease ‘Conjunctivitis’, commonly known as pink eye, among schools in the Colombo city limits, it was reported. 

According to the Daily Mirror, academic activities of several grades in a number of schools in Colombo have been suspended due to the spread of the eye disease. 

Classes in three grades of the Kotahena Central College have been temporarily closed till next Friday due to the spread of the disease.

Meanwhile, classes for the 6th, 7th, and 8th Grades have been suspended after approximately 100 students from the Kotahena Madhya Maha Vidyalaya had fallen victim to the contagious eye disease. 

Colombo’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ruwan Wijemuni said it has been found that the eye disease is spreading rapidly in schools located in the Colombo West, Colombo Central, Colombo North and Borella areas under the CMC’s jurisdiction.

The public has been requested not to panic, with Dr. Wijemuni assuring that this disease is not fatal.

Redness in one or both eyes, itching, excessive tears, headaches, sensitivity to light, and dry eyes have been outlined as symptoms of the disease.

Parents have been urged to seek immediate medical attention if their children have been experiencing these symptoms for more than five days. (NewsWire)