The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Pakistan has identified the virus responsible for a recent outbreak of pink eye disease in the country as Coxsackievirus A24. This virus has caused mild outbreaks in various parts of the world. The Interim Health Minister, Nadeem Jan, has urged the public not to worry about the outbreak but emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures to prevent infection. He advised people to follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued by the federal and provincial governments to avoid contracting pink eye.
In addition to identifying the virus, there have been reports of a shortage of essential eye drops in Lahore and surrounding areas, where the outbreak has occurred. Profiteers have taken advantage of the situation by raising prices, making it difficult for citizens to access necessary medication for conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye). This shortage has led to frustration among those seeking antibiotic, anti-allergy, and dry eye drops.
The government is working to ensure that the public is protected from the outbreak, but challenges related to medication availability and affordability persist in affected areas.
