Acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis in Ghana

Overview of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis in Ghana

Acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) is a highly contagious eye infection characterized by the sudden onset of conjunctival inflammation, pain, and subconjunctival hemorrhage. This article focuses on the occurrence and impact of AHC in Ghana.

Overview

Anatomy of the human eye

Acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis is caused by enteroviruses, primarily the enterovirus 70 and coxsackievirus A24. The disease is marked by a rapid onset of symptoms, including redness of the eyes, swelling, pain, and subconjunctival hemorrhages, which give the condition its name. AHC is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in communities, particularly in areas with high population density and limited access to healthcare.

Epidemiology in Ghana

Ghana has experienced several outbreaks of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis, with significant public health implications. The tropical climate, combined with densely populated urban areas, creates an environment conducive to the spread of the virus. Outbreaks in Ghana have been documented since the 1960s, with periodic resurgences that affect large segments of the population.

Transmission

The virus responsible for AHC is transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. Poor hygiene practices, such as inadequate handwashing, can facilitate the spread of the virus. In Ghana, communal living conditions and crowded public spaces contribute to the rapid transmission of AHC during outbreaks.

Clinical Features

Conjunctival anatomy

Patients with acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis typically present with sudden onset of eye pain, redness, and swelling. The hallmark of the disease is the presence of subconjunctival hemorrhages, which appear as bright red patches on the white part of the eye. Other symptoms may include tearing, photophobia, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of AHC is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic symptoms and history of exposure. Laboratory tests, such as viral cultures or polymerase chain reaction (PCR), can confirm the presence of enterovirus, but are not routinely performed in resource-limited settings like Ghana.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis. Management focuses on symptomatic relief, including the use of lubricating eye drops, cold compresses, and analgesics for pain. Patients are advised to practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the infection to others.

Prevention

Preventive measures are crucial in controlling outbreaks of AHC. Public health campaigns in Ghana emphasize the importance of hand hygiene, avoiding touching the face, and minimizing close contact with infected individuals. During outbreaks, schools and workplaces may implement additional measures to reduce transmission.

Impact on Public Health

Outbreaks of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis in Ghana can strain the healthcare system and disrupt daily life. The highly contagious nature of the disease means that large numbers of people can be affected in a short period, leading to increased absenteeism from work and school. Public health efforts focus on rapid response and education to mitigate the impact of outbreaks.

Related pages

• Conjunctivitis
• Enterovirus
• Public health in Ghana