Punjab reports over 10,000 new cases of pink eye infection

Islamabad: The Primary and Secondary Health department of Punjab reported a severe outbreak of pink eye infection with a staggering 10,269 new cases in the past 24 hours.

According to a spokesperson, a total of 394,795 reported cases of eye infections spread across 36 districts within Punjab.

The Primary and Secondary Healthcare department has advised that conjunctivitis typically resolves on its own within 8 to 10 days.

To reduce the risk of infection and aid in recovery, it is strongly recommended to maintain proper eye hygiene, including regular washing with clean water, protection from intense sunlight, and shielding from dust and dirt.

A day earlier, Caretaker Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Dr Jamal Nasir informed that proceedings were initiated against a private hospital which rented space for preparing and selling small doses of Avastin injections illegally.

In a video message, he said that Punjab Healthcare Commission has been directed to issue a notice to the said hospital located in Model Town, Lahore, and conduct an inquiry into the matter

He said that the private hospital management, after renting out its floor, is required to monitor the utilization of the space. He said that it was their responsibility to ensure that no illegal activities were carried out there.

Dr Jamal Nasir said that so far 80 patients affected by the injection have been reported and this is almost the final figure. He said that presently 20 patients are under treatment at Mayo Hospital, Lahore.

He said that the exact condition of their eyesight will be determined after treatment of infection in their eyes.

Dr Jamal Nasir said that after this incident, the use of Avastin injection for treatment of eyes of diabetic patients has been banned. However, case will be registered against those who violate this ban in any form.