Don’t use urine, breast milk to treat ‘apollo’, experts warn

The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) has warned against the use of urine, breast milk, acid and other unorthodox treatment when infected with conjunctivitis, popularly known as Apollo.

Ozy Okonokhua, president of the association, issued the warning in an interview with NAN on Monday.

Okonokhua frowned at such practices as they could prove harmful to the eyes.

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear tissue that lies over the white part of the eye (sclera) and lines the inside of the eyelid.

It is a contagious infection that clears up with no long-term problems if properly treated.

It could be caused by several factors including common cold, bacteria, irritants such as shampoos, dirt, smoke, reaction to eye drops, allergic reaction to pollen, dust, smoke, contact lenses-fungi, amoebas, and parasites.

Symptoms include redness of the sclera, swollen conjunctiva, more tears than usual, thick yellow discharge, itchy or burning eyes, blurred vision and swollen lymph nodes.

Okonokhua urged Nigerians to seek help from trained and licensed professional optometrist when infected with an eye problem.

He also advised people to imbibe the habit of regular hand washing to avoid contracting a bacterial infection of the eye.

“Apollo is a virus that is self-limiting which means it cannot be cured with local medicine or self-medication,” Okonokhua said.

“It is a viral infection enhanced by dryness more common during the dry season and the bacteria infection which is secondary is best treated with antibiotics.”