An outbreak of viral conjunctivitis has hit Karonga district, with a total of 109 cases registered from February 1, 2024.

Director of Health Services for the district, David Sibale has confirmed the development saying the cases have been registered across the district and advising people to avoid sharing personal items, to wash hands frequently and avoid rubbing eyes with unclean hands.

Viral conjunctivitis is a disease caused by a virus which affects the eyes and can be spread easily from person to person.

Signs and symptoms of the disease include pink or red color in the white part of the eye, swelling of the eye lining, increased tear production, itching, eye discharge, painful eye and visual disturbance.