The Ministry of Health and Environment is reporting a slight decrease in the number of acute conjunctivitis (pink-eye) cases, but continues to urge persons who are infected to stay away from work and school.

"It is not going up, we think there is a slight decrease," Dr Eva Lewis-Fuller, director of health promotion and protection in the Ministry of Health and Environment told The Gleaner on Friday.

Lewis-Fuller said that, while she could not state the number of cases since the outbreak, the ministry was continuing to heighten surveillance and public education.

She promised that the ministry would examine the figures more closely this week. Lewis-Fuller urged persons with complications such as poor vision to seek medical attention.

Symptoms of pink-eye

Redness of the eyes.

Itchy or burning sensation and a feeling like gravel is in the eyes.

The eyelid may become swollen and a watery discharge may drain from the eye.

The infected person will have difficulty seeing in bright light.

Preventative measures

Wash hands thoroughly and regularly.

Desist from touching the face, especially around the eyes.

Do not share towels, make-up or contact lenses.

Avoid shaking hands with an infected person, as such persons may have infected eye secretions on their hands.

Those with pink-eye should:

Minimise hand-to-eye contact.

Wash hands after touching the eyes.

Use disposable material to wipe the eyes in mild cases.

Make sure to wash the hands thoroughly after touching the eyes.