Apollo cases confirmed in Yobe as residents raise alarm

The Yobe State Specialist Hospital, located in Potiskum, has confirmed instances of acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as Apollo. Hospital authorities are urging the public to practice good hygiene and preventive measures to prevent the disease's spread. Dr Abubakar Sadiq Zakari, the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee at the hospital, stated that while the true number of cases may be higher, many individuals might not seek medical help and instead manage the condition at home.

He recommended regular hand washing, avoiding eye contact, and refraining from sharing personal items like towels, clothes, bedding, and utensils. Dr Muhammad Lawan Gana, the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, announced that the government has implemented measures to control the outbreak. These measures include disseminating key messages to stakeholders and communities via social media, as well as training Health Promotion Officers to educate communities through Village Community Mobilisers.

Local residents have reported a rising number of cases, with symptoms including red or swollen eyes, itching, pain, and watery discharge. Some families have been affected simultaneously, causing alarm among the community. Regarding the severity of the situation, residents such as Haladu Badejo, Idris Bello Danchuawa, and Abubakar Suleiman have all expressed concern, with Suleiman calling it an epidemic.

Suleiman described the infection as causing severe redness and pain, and some patients have recovered with the use of eye drops and oral medication. Another patient, Kasim Muhammad Isah, noted that many people in Potiskum are affected and are wearing glasses to protect themselves. Yandiski urged the government to take urgent action to curb the situation.

Alhaji Abdurrahman Santurankin Yandiski also called for increased public awareness, health guidance, and preventive measures. The Yobe State Primary Health Care Board advised residents to regularly wash their hands with soap and clean water, avoid touching their eyes, and refrain from sharing personal items. They also cautioned against using substances like urine, breast milk, sugar solution, cow dung, or battery liquid in the eyes, as they could lead to serious damage or blindness.

Dr Maryam Ahmed Mustapha, a medical doctor, emphasized that Apollo is highly contagious and can spread through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. She also debunked the notion that merely looking at an infected person could cause the disease, advising residents to maintain proper hand hygiene and consult medical professionals if symptoms arise.