On Tuesday, May 14, news broke that renowned rappers Bull Dogg and P Fla had been diagnosed with a prevalent eye condition known as ‘Viral Conjunctivitis,’ caused by the Adenovirus. According to igihe.com, This revelation, following Pacson’s recent recovery from the same ailment, underscores the urgency of addressing eye diseases within the Rwandan population.

Acknowledging the persistent prevalence of eye ailments, ICK News presents an insightful examination of the various eye diseases posing a threat to the Rwandan community. By shedding light on these conditions, we aim to raise awareness and empower individuals to take proactive measures for prevention.

Eye Diseases in Adults:

1. Viral Conjunctivitis (Amarundi):  On May 8, 2024, the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) reiterated warnings about the highly contagious ‘Amarundi,’ caused by Adenovirus. Dr. Edson Rwagasore, Head of the Epidemic Disease Control Department at RBC, highlighted its prevalence in densely populated areas such as schools. Symptoms include eye redness, burning sensation, swelling, blurred vision, and photophobia. Preventive measures encompass hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and seeking medical attention promptly.  
2. Glaucoma: Dr. Theophile Tuyisabe, Director of Kabgayi Eye Hospital, emphasized the prevalence of glaucoma among adults, characterized by elevated intraocular pressure. Timely intervention to prevent vision loss is crucial.
3. Cataract: Commonly associated with aging, cataracts manifest as cloudiness in the eye lens, necessitating surgical intervention for vision restoration.
4. Refractive Errors: As highlighted by Dr. Tuyisabe, some adults require glasses to correct refractive errors and achieve clear vision.
5. Eye Conditions Linked to Systemic Diseases: association between systemic diseases like diabetes and hypertension can affect eye health, highlighting the importance of holistic healthcare.

Eye diseases in Children:

1. Eye Allergies: Children may experience eye irritation due to allergies, necessitating medical attention to prevent further complications.
2. Refractive Errors in Children: Some children are born with refractive errors, requiring corrective measures such as glasses.
3. Congenital Conditions: Certain congenital conditions like cataracts and glaucoma can affect children’s vision and require early intervention.
4. Premature Retinopathy: Premature babies may experience weak eye muscles, leading to potential eye problems. Timely care is crucial to prevent blindness.
5. Retinoblastoma (Eye Cancer): Eye cancer, though rare, can occur in children and adults. Early detection is key for successful treatment.

Health professionals emphasize the importance of regular eye check-ups and prompt medical intervention to preserve vision. Collaboration between healthcare facilities, such as Kabgayi Eye Hospital and Butaro Hospital, enables comprehensive eye care and timely detection of serious conditions like cancer.

As the eyes are invaluable assets, safeguarding ocular health is paramount to preserve the gift of sight for generations to come