Pink-eye is a highly contagious eye infection that can spread rapidly through communities, causing severe eye pain and even loss of vision.
Dr. David Khorram, the ophthalmologist and medical director of Marianas Eye Institute, began seeing the first cases last week.
“The epidemic is just in its early stages,” he said. “The first few patients have come in with severe redness, tearing and discomfort of one eye. Our goal right now is to make the public immediately aware of it to help contain the epidemic and prevent its spread through the community.”
Pink eye, or what is known as epidemic keratoconjunctivitis, is caused by several strains of viruses.
Khorram explained that most viruses have no specific treatment. “Just like a cold, you have to wait it out. There are things we can do to help you feel more comfortable, but typically it just takes time. This particular strain of pink-eye is lasting at least one week.”
Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis is spread when people come into contact with the virus in the tears.
According to Khorram, “I explain to my patients that the most important preventive action is to wash your hands frequently and to avoid touching your eyes. Many people have a tendency to carry a washcloth around to dab their eyes. The washcloth becomes a reservoir for the virus and makes the spread easy. I tell people that if you need to wipe your eyes, use a tissue, then immediately throw it away and wash your hands. If you have pink eye and you use your hand to wipe your eye, and then you touch a doorknob, the next person that comes along and touches that doorknob and then rubs their eye can catch the virus.”
After one to two weeks, the redness can go away, but blurred vision can begin. The virus has been known to cause scarring of the cornea, and loss of vision.
“If you have pain or discomfort, we can help make that better. The other concern is that if your vision becomes blurred, we need to take steps to help prevent permanent visual loss,” said Khorram.
He noted that not everyone with pink-eye needs to see the doctor. The key is to prevent its spread, and to seek medical attention for relief of symptoms. “To prevent its spread, wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, and don’t share towels or pillowcases with anyone,” added Khorram.
Past epidemics in the CNMI have resulted in hundreds afflicted, and high absences from work and school. Marianas Eye Institute, has been at the forefront of monitoring the epidemic.
The doctors at Marianas Eye Institute treat all forms of eye disease, as well as offer glasses, contacts, medical eye care, surgery and laser.
It has been recognized as “one of the best-equipped eye clinics in the Asia-Pacific region” by Retinal Physician magazine. Marianas Eye Institute is located on Beach Road Garapan, across 13 Fishermen Monument.
Walk-ins are welcome, or appointments can be scheduled by calling 235-9090 or visiting the www.MarianasEye.com.
