Possible Water Contamination Linked to the Recent KwaZulu-Natal Pink Eye Outbreak

By Trish Ngomani ?

According to published information by the KwaZulu-Natal Health for MEC, Ms Nomagugu Simelane on the 2nd of March 2024, the confirmed cases of pink eye in various districts of Thekwini were sitting on 161 cases. This number has increased exponentially as it was reported by the Daily Maverick to be more than 13000 by the end April 2024.

The main question on people's minds is why the sudden surge and most importantly, what is causing this endemic, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.

To answer these questions, it is important that we understand what exactly causes pink eye and to note that KwaZulu-Natal is not the only region that has seen a surge in pink eye cases over the past year.

Infact, pink eye outbreaks are quite common globally with reported cases early this year in East Africa with Kenya being hit the hardest.?

According to a research article? released in December 2023, conjunctivitis popularly known as 'pink eye' is an infection of the conjunctiva which is a thin layer of mucus which covers the inside of the eyelids and the front of the eye. When there is an infection in the conjunctiva it may appear pink or red hence the name, ‘pink eye’.

Symptoms of the disease can range from moderate cases of redness to more extreme cases with signs including purulent discharge and swelling of the? eyelids.

It is important to note that the condition is highly contagious and is caused by various factors such as viruses, bacteria, allergens or simply an irritation to the eye. Additionally, conjunctivitis can be classified into two classes each with their own treatment and causes. The two classes are chronic conjunctivitis lasting for more than 4 weeks while acute conjunctivitis clearing up within 2-3 weeks. Acute is the most common case.?

Bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus are the primary causative agents of bacterial conjunctivitis. The spread of this condition is typically a result of poor hygiene practices or overcrowded living conditions. On the other hand, viral conjunctivitis is extremely contagious and quite often linked to respiratory infections like the common flu with watery discharge from the eyes as a common symptom.

Allergic conjunctivitis is another common form of conjunctivitis, triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. This type of conjunctivitis is often seasonal and easily treated by allergy medication.

In the case of KZN, the National Eye Health Advocacy Project (NEHAP) suspects that one of the causative agents of the outbreak could be poor hygiene, particularly contaminated water. The NEHAP has also urged the Department of Health to report on the specific type of conjunctivitis being diagnosed by clinics and hospitals to enable timely and accurate intervention.