Taiwan CDC has confirmed 3 outbreaks of acute hemorrhagic conjuctivitis taking place in schools. Laboratory tests confirmed enteroviruses as the source of infections. Viral culture determined that one outbreak was caused by Coxsackie virus A24. Coxsackie virus A24 was also previously responsible for school outbreaks that occurred during September and October, 2007. Thus far, only sporadic cases of acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) in elementary schools located in different cities and counties have been reported. Health agencies have already taken appropriate preventions.
According to the surveillance data collected by the school-based surveillance system, during the last four weeks (week 17 to 20), there was a nationwide increase in the number of AHC infections. The incidence rates reported during the last four weeks were respectively 0.03‰, 0.07‰, 0.14‰ and 0.16‰. Compared to the data from the previous years, this year’s week 20 showed a significant increase in the number of cases. The incidence rate during week 20 in 2008 and 2009 were respectively 0.07‰ and 0.07‰.
AHC is highly contagious. Its incubation period ranges from 12 to 48 hours. The main symptoms include a gritty feeling or burning sensation in the eyes, light sensitivity, excessive tearing and increased discharge from the eyes. More severe conditions include swollen eyelids, edema or bleeding under the conjunctiva. Symptoms usually last for about 4 to 6 days.
With summer approaching, families with infected children are urged to react promptly by seeking immediate medical help. Families are advised to follow the doctor’s instructions on the use of medication and ensure the infected children remain at home. Other preventive measures include handling discharges from the eyes with care, washing hands frequently with soap and avoiding visits to public areas such as communal swimming pools. Good personal hygiene is key to preventing infection. To ensure hands are thoroughly cleaned, follow a five-step washing procedure: wet, scrub, rinse, hold and wipe. Avoid rubbing eyes with hands and use clean towels, cotton swabs or tissues for wiping. For any questions or further information on infectious diseases, please call the toll-free Communicable Disease Reporting and Consultation Hotline 1922, or visit the Taiwan CDC's website.