Over spread of Red Eye and Diarrhoea within communities
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
Health authorities in Western Province have issued a warning to communities in Simbo and Ranongga islands to take precautionary measures against the spread of red eye infections and diarrhoea following the impact of Cyclone Maila.
Emu Harbour Clinic Nursing Supervisor, Mrs Liconia Cynthia, raised concerns over increasing cases linked to poor hygiene and unsafe drinking water, particularly in the aftermath of the cyclone.
She said a number of children were treated over the weekend for symptoms including vomiting and stomach pain.
“Over the weekend, a few children presented with vomiting and abdominal pain,” Mrs Cynthia told Solomon Star in an interview.
She attributed the cases to the consumption of unsafe water and inadequate handwashing practices
.
“This is due to unhealthy water consumption. Poor hygiene practices can affect both children and adults after the cyclone,” she added.
Mrs Cynthia further stressed that shortages of clean drinking water in affected communities are heightening the risk of disease outbreaks.
Meanwhile, parents and guardians have also raised concerns after children in their households complained of similar symptoms, including stomach pain and nausea.
Koriovuku Community on Ranongga Island, which serves as a key access point for medical services for both Ranongga and Simbo islands, is also taking proactive steps to address the situation.
Chairman of the Koriovuku Community Disaster Committee, Mr Rocky Rilifia, confirmed that the community is prioritising water safety as an immediate response.
“Since the water supply is currently down, all families must take extra care, especially with diarrhoea and vomiting cases,” Mr Rilifia said.
“While waiting for the water supply to be restored, the committee has decided to focus on improving access to safe water starting today,” he added.
He said community members have already begun coordinated efforts to address health risks, with water safety identified as the top priority before tackling other concerns.
Health officials continue to urge residents to boil drinking water, practise proper handwashing, and maintain cleanliness to prevent further spread of illness.
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