Health authorities have confirmed an outbreak of Acute Haemorrhagic Conjunctivitis (AHC), commonly known as Apollo, in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality of the Western North Region.
In a public health advisory, residents were urged to take immediate precautions to prevent the highly contagious eye infection from spreading.
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Health officials said Apollo is transmitted through direct contact with infected eye secretions or contaminated hands, as well as shared items such as towels, tissues, pillows, cosmetics and eye drops.
Common symptoms include red or bloodshot eyes, excessive tearing, eye pain or irritation, a gritty sensation, swollen eyelids, sensitivity to light and eye discharge that may cause the eyelids to stick together.
Residents have been advised to wash their hands regularly with soap and clean water, avoid touching or rubbing their eyes and refrain from sharing personal items that come into contact with the face.
People experiencing symptoms have also been urged to stay away from school, work and other crowded places to reduce transmission and seek prompt medical attention instead of self-medicating or using unprescribed eye drops or herbal remedies.
Health authorities called on the public to observe good personal hygiene, remain vigilant and report to the nearest health facility if they develop symptoms.
