An outbreak of acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis in Thailand. I. Clinical observation

Abstract

2,105 cases of acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis were studied. Both sexes and all ages were affected, with a young adult and adult predominance. The outbreak was most widespread in September and October and the highest peak of incidence was during the 40th week of the year (September 26 - October 2). The disease began with a history of an irritation of one or both eyes followed by sudden lid swelling, pink eyes, lacrimation and pain. A mucopurulent discharge was found in most cases. Minute subconjunctival hemorrhages were detected in 80% and 8% with gross subconjunctival hemorrhage. The preauricular lymph node enlargement was found only in 2% of the cases. The disease was self limited without any permanent damage. Treatment with antibiotic preparations may prevent the bacterial superinfection and corticosteroid eye drops applied in the later course of the disease gave satisfactory results.