Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa is affected by the “pink eye” outbreak.

In several parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, conjunctivitis, also referred to as “pink eye,” has become an epidemic, especially in areas hit by flooding. In August alone, over 22,863 cases were registered, according to the provincial health department.

Hospitals are under tremendous strain as a result of the outbreak. Every day more than 150 new cases are recorded at Lady Reading Hospital, the biggest hospital in the province. Remarkably, the illness has also infected five physicians from the hospital’s ophthalmology department. While Hayatabad Medical Complex reports over 80 cases per day, Khyber Teaching Hospital sees 60 to 70 patients every day.

According to official records, 97,212 incidences of conjunctivitis were reported throughout the province between January and August of this year. Nowshera, Peshawar, Swat, Shangla, Battagram, Mardan, and Buner have recorded the largest numbers. According to health officials, the disease has become far more prevalent in districts impacted by flooding, where stagnant water and inadequate hygiene have aided in its spread.

With 4,204 instances, Swat was the most hit district, according to the health department’s August report. Peshawar (2,254), Buner (1,743), Shangla (1,689), Lower Dir (1,484), Nowshera (1,194), Battagram (1,080), and Malakand (1,235) were next in line.

According to hospital sources, the majority of patients receive treatment in wards; nevertheless, because the condition is extremely contagious, physicians are refraining from using shared medical equipment and instruments on infected patients. After receiving initial therapy, many patients are released with tight recommendations for preventive measures.

The Health Department has responded by issuing a public advisory. People have been advised to isolate themselves if they are infected, avoid close contact, and maintain rigorous hygiene. Patients are encouraged to wear protective sunglasses in the sun, use cushions and bedding separately, and heed medical advice. Although conjunctivitis usually lasts up to a week, health experts warn that if precautions are not taken, it can spread as quickly as the seasonal flu.

As you may remember, two weeks ago, the K-P Health Department issued an advise from the National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, directing all district and teaching hospitals to take prompt action to prevent and treat conjunctivitis (eye infection).