FACTORS LEADING TO THE PREVALENCE OF VIRAL CONJUNCTIVITIS AMONG PATIENTS RECEIVING EYE CARE SERVICES AT JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL.

Abstract

Purpose of the study

To determine the factors leading to the prevalence of viral conjunctivitis among patients receiving eye care services at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital.

Study methods

The study used a descriptive cross-sectional design applying qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze data.

Principle findings

From a total of 100 respondents that were randomly selected, the study established that viral conjunctivitis was more prevalent in the age group of 25-40 years 50%(50), more in females 52%(52) than males 48%(48) and also had chances of recurrence twice 51%(20). Viral conjunctivitis was associated with URTI 29% (29), more in urban places 71% (71), and was also associated with systemic conditions mostly in DM 20% (20). The management strategies ranged from the use of eye drops and ointments 56% (56) to self-limiting with no use of eye drops 44% (44) and among those who used eye drops and ointments the most used was acyclovir ointment 39% (22).

Conclusion

The study established that viral conjunctivitis was more prevalent in people aged 25-40 years and more in females. Risk factors were sought to be URTI and systemic conditions like DM where management strategies ranged from the use of treatment to self–limiting with no use of treatment.

Recommendation

There should be massive sensitization by the government to increase people’s awareness of the risk factors for acquiring viral conjunctivitis—isolation of people from endemic places to prevent the rapid spread because viral conjunctivitis is too contagious. And finally, the government should establish more specialized hospitals (eye clinics) to increase accessibility to eye care services.