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.”