The Mombasa County Government has urged residents to prioritize hygiene measures as the county deals with increased cases of conjunctivitis, also known as red eye.

On Monday, the County Department of Health Services highlighted the alarming prevalence of highly contagious and infectious diseases.

Red Eye can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants, and symptoms include eye pain, swelling, redness, itchiness, and discharge.

Mombasa County has advised residents to practice strict hygiene to prevent the spread of the infection.


This includes frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes and face, and refraining from sharing personal items such as towels, pillowcases, eye drops, or makeup.  

These preventive measures are intended to reduce the spread of the Red Eye, which spreads quickly and causes fear and anxiety among Mombasa County residents.

The alert emphasizes the contagious nature of the red eye, the importance of covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, properly disposing of tissues, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, and wearing sunglasses to prevent further eye irritation.


Residents with redness, itching,blurred vision, or eye discharge should seek immediate medical attention.

On Monday, Tanzanian health authorities issued a high alert in response to the outbreak.