Parts of The Gambia are experiencing a rise in cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known locally as 'apollo'. The infection has hit different parts of the country, including the Greater Banjul Area, Lower River Region, Central River Region, and Upper River Region, in recent weeks. On October 15, 2026, the Ministry of Health urged the public to take eye redness seriously and advised people to wash their hands frequently, avoid rubbing their eyes, and refrain from sharing personal belongings.
Conjunctivitis, or 'apollo', is a highly contagious form of viral conjunctivitis that can cause sudden eye redness and swelling, as well as bleeding beneath the eye's surface. According to Sainey Saho, a public health officer at Banjulinding Health Centre, Apollo can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, and irritants. Viral conjunctivitis is often associated with a cold and is highly contagious, while bacterial conjunctivitis can spread through contact with infected eye discharge, contaminated hands, or objects.
Health experts are advising the public to observe proper hygiene to prevent the spread of the infection. Nurse Nyima Sanyang, a health advocate and nurse at Kanifing General Hospital, advised the public to avoid touching or rubbing their eyes, wash their hands frequently, and refrain from sharing personal items such as towels, pillowcases, and eye drops. Anyone experiencing eye pain, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision should seek medical attention.
The symptoms of Apollo may affect one or both eyes and include red or bloodshot eyes, excessive tearing or watery discharge, itching, burning, and irritation. A gritty sensation, as though something is in the eye, swollen eyelids, and discharge that causes the eyelids to stick together after sleeping are also common symptoms. In acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis, symptoms may develop suddenly, and small areas of bleeding may appear beneath the conjunctiva.
Infectious conjunctivitis can spread through contact with infected eye secretions, contaminated hands, and objects. Transmission may occur when people touch their eyes with unwashed hands or share personal items such as towels, face cloths, pillows, handkerchiefs, and eye cosmetics. To reduce transmission, the public is advised to wash their hands regularly, avoid rubbing their eyes, and do not share personal items.
Treatment for Apollo depends on the underlying cause. Viral conjunctivitis often clears up on its own, usually within one to two weeks, although some cases may last longer. A clean, cool compress and lubricating eye drops may help relieve discomfort. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, although a healthcare professional may prescribe them for certain bacterial infections.
The public is urged to seek urgent medical care if they experience severe eye pain, blurred or reduced vision, intense sensitivity to light, or severe redness. Although many cases of conjunctivitis resolve without lasting complications, a red eye should not be assumed harmless. People whose symptoms worsen or fail to improve should also seek medical advice.
Key points
- The Gambia has seen a rise in conjunctivitis cases, prompting public health warnings and calls for proper hygiene practices.
- Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious form of viral conjunctivitis that can cause sudden eye redness and swelling.
- The public is advised to practice proper hygiene, including washing hands regularly, avoiding rubbing eyes, and not sharing personal items.
