‘It’s not ‘correct’ to treat ‘apollo’ with breastmilk’ - Senior Optometrist

A senior optometrist, Dr. Spencer Obeng-Gyasi based at the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District Hospital has refuted a widely held myth suggesting that breast milk can be used as a cure for hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as 'apollo'.

Dr. Obeng-Gyasi not only debunked this myth but also highlighted the potential risks associated with such actions.

Dr. Obeng-Gyasi emphasized that the notion of using breast milk as a remedy for 'apollo' is not only false but medically unsound.

He pointed out that breast milk contains nutrients that could potentially support the proliferation of viral-causing agents responsible for 'apollo', making it an ineffective and even risky treatment method.

Speaking on the radio program “Nyankonton Mu Nsem” on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the doctor explained that hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, or 'apollo' is a highly contagious eye condition characterized by inflammation and bleeding of the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane covering the whites of the eyes and the inner eyelids.

According to him, the primary cause of this condition is viral infections, often triggered by enterovirus 70 (EV-70) and coxsackievirus A24 (CA24).

Addressing a common misconception, Dr. Obeng-Gyasi clarified that staring directly into the eyes of an infected person does not spread the infection, contrary to popular belief.

He stated, "That’s not correct. If that was the case, those of us working in the eye clinics would have been infected."

He explained that the virus responsible for hemorrhagic conjunctivitis has a short incubation period of approximately one to three days.

This means that symptoms can manifest within this time frame after exposure to an infected person or contaminated surface.

Given its ease of transmission, crowded environments can be conducive to the spread of the infection.

Dr. Obeng-Gyasi highlighted the importance of preventive measures, stating, "Regular handwashing, avoiding touching the eyes, and not sharing personal items such as towels or makeup are all important preventive measures."

"Additionally, if someone is afflicted, avoiding close contact with others and isolating oneself can help limit the virus's spread."