In response to the surging cases of conjunctivitis in Arunachal Pradesh, the district administrations of Namsai and East Siang have taken a proactive step by ordering a temporary suspension of school activities in an effort to curb the spread of the highly contagious eye infection. As per the latest reports, the state capital Itanagar and Kanubari sub-division of Longding district have already implemented similar measures to contain the outbreak.

All private and government schools in East Siang will remain temporarily closed until August 2, while educational institutes in Namsai will suspend activities until July 31, according to officials. The decision to close schools was taken after a comprehensive survey conducted by the district surveillance units revealed a sharp rise in conjunctivitis cases.

Also read: Conjunctivitis outbreak reported in Arunachal Pradesh

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, can spread effortlessly through direct or indirect contact with eye secretions, contaminated objects, or respiratory droplets from infected individuals.

East Siang Deputy Commissioner, Tayi Taggu, has stressed the importance of maintaining strict hygiene practices to curb the infection. He urged the public to diligently follow the guidelines and advisories issued by the district medical officer to safeguard their health and well-being.

Similarly, the Namsai administration has taken preventive measures by temporarily closing schools to break the chain of transmission, especially among children. The district administration has directed school-going children and other infected individuals to self-isolate and quarantine themselves to avoid further transmission.

Lower Dibang Valley has reported more than 100 cases of conjunctivitis from various schools, and the number is continuously rising. Consequently, all schools in the district have been instructed to follow the public health advisory issued by the Roing hospital to prevent the spread of the viral infection. The advisory emphasizes frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the eyes, not sharing personal items, and isolating the infected individuals.

Additionally, the Tirap administration, in collaboration with the district health society, recently conducted a survey and awareness program on acute conjunctivitis at Ramakrishna Sarada Mission Girls’ School in Khonsa. Tirap Deputy Commissioner, Hento Karga, stressed the significance of maintaining hygiene to curb the spread of the infection. He urged everyone to individually contribute to breaking the chain of infection by practicing social distancing and proper hygiene.

While the closure of schools may have implications on academic programs, the priority for now remains the health and safety of the students and staff. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will reassess the measures based on the evolving conjunctivitis situation in the affected regions.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for the public to remain vigilant and adhere to the guidelines provided by health authorities to mitigate the spread of conjunctivitis. With concerted efforts, the communities in Arunachal Pradesh can overcome this eye infection outbreak.