Conjunctivitis cases multiply in South Wales

As many as 93 people have now been affected by the outbreak of viral conjunctivitis in South Wales, according to statement from the National Public Health Service for Wales (NPHS).

NPHS told Optician this week that it had identified 65 confirmed cases in the Rhondda Fach valley. The outbreak is centred on the Ferndale area, with some cases in Maerdy, Pwllgwaun and Pontypridd.

GPs, optometrists and other healthcare staff have been alerted and given advice on precautions to prevent spread.

The highly infectious condition causes a red watery eye with discomfort and blurred vision. In a few cases the discomfort can be severe. It usually lasts around two weeks. Antibiotics are not required, and make no difference to the duration of illness.