Surveillance of conjunctivitis at a school in Kamonyi District, Rwanda, 2024

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Conjunctivitis, a highly contagious eye condition, can significantly impact public health, especially in close-contact settings like schools. This study investigated a conjunctivitis attack at ECOSE Saint Kizito Musambira Boarding School in Rwanda. 

METHODS: This surveillance study examined 577 students and 26 staff members through clinical examinations, health records, and demographic data collection from March 12-20, 2024. 

RESULTS: The conjunctivitis primarily affected female students (77%), with symptoms including itchy eyes (80.9%) and foreign body sensation (96.7%). The high attack rate suggested a highly contagious agent. Treatment included ciprofloxacin, ibuprofen, and tetracycline pomade. Close living conditions and bed-sharing were more common behaviors among the students. 

CONCLUSION: This conjunctivitis attack highlights the importance of rapid detection and response to infectious diseases in schools. While antibiotic therapy was the main management approach, the specific etiology remains uncertain without diagnostic tests. Future prevention strategies should focus on hygiene measures, early case identification, isolation, and enhanced laboratory testing to manage school outbreaks effectively.