Proper hygiene urged as Tacloban schools record 704 cases of sore eyes

TACLOBAN CITY, LEYTE, Philippines — At least 704 cases of sore eyes, or conjunctivitis, were recorded in nine schools in Tacloban City from Oct. 1 to 15, prompting health officials and school administrators to remind students and teachers to observe proper hygiene and avoid spreading the infection.

Data from the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the City Health Office showed that most of those affected were students and teachers.

Ridgeview Park Integrated School recorded the highest number of cases at 315, followed by Leyte National High School with 116, San Fernando Central School with 78, New Hope Elementary School with 56, and Sto. Niño Special Education (SPED) Center with 46.

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The remaining 93 cases were reported in four other schools.

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The number of sore eyes cases in the city is expected to increase as other schools have also reported of such cases.

School administrators have advised students and personnel experiencing symptoms to stay home temporarily to prevent further transmission.

READ: Negros Oriental to suspend Aug. 7 classes as sore eyes cases rise

The Department of Health (DOH)-Eastern Visayas warned that conjunctivitis is a contagious eye infection characterized by redness, swelling, itching, excessive tearing, and discharge.

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The infection can spread through direct contact with eye secretions, contaminated hands and objects, and sharing personal belongings such as towels, handkerchiefs, pillows, and cosmetics.

The DOH advised the public to wash their hands regularly, avoid touching or rubbing their eyes, and refrain from sharing personal items.

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Those experiencing eye redness, swelling, itching, or discharge were advised to seek medical consultation at the nearest health center.

People with symptoms should also avoid crowded places and refrain from wearing contact lenses until their condition improves.

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Health officials particularly urged parents to monitor children for symptoms and prevent them from attending school while experiencing the infection. /cb