By Dr. Ebiye-Nwoko Adaeze (OD)
Childhood eye infections, commonly called "Apollo," are a major cause of preventable vision problems in Lagos. With proper knowledge and hygiene, parents can protect their children from serious complications like corneal scarring and blindness. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi and Ikeja, we provide expert diagnosis, treatment, and guidance to keep your child’s vision safe.
Common Childhood Eye Infections
Conjunctivitis ("Apollo")
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Bacterial: Thick yellow or green discharge, sticky eyelids, highly contagious.
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Viral: Watery discharge, redness, gritty feeling, spreads rapidly in schools.
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Allergic (Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis): Intense itching, tearing, mucous discharge; common in dusty environments, can lead to corneal ulcers.
Microbial Keratitis (Corneal Ulcer)
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Danger: Can destroy corneal tissue, causing permanent scarring and blindness.
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Causes: Trauma, contaminated traditional medicines, untreated conjunctivitis or VKC.
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Symptoms: Severe pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, visible spot on the cornea.
Periorbital Infections (Stye, Cellulitis)
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Stye: Painful bump on the eyelid.
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Preseptal Cellulitis: Swelling, redness, pain; requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent life-threatening orbital cellulitis.
Why Early Action Matters
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Nearly 50% of childhood blindness is avoidable with early detection and intervention.
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Late presentation and self-medication with inappropriate remedies worsen outcomes and delay proper care.
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Simple infections can escalate to sight-threatening conditions if not managed promptly.
Prevention: SpecSMART’s Ocular Hygiene Guide
Hand Hygiene
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Teach children to wash hands frequently with soap and water.
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Discourage touching eyes to prevent infection spread.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items
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Ensure towels, face cloths, pillows, handkerchiefs, and makeup are not shared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is "Apollo"?
"Apollo" refers to infectious conjunctivitis, often viral or bacterial, causing redness, discharge, and discomfort.
Can eye infections cause blindness?
Yes, untreated infections like corneal ulcers can lead to permanent vision loss.
How can I prevent my child from getting eye infections?
Teach good hand hygiene, avoid sharing personal items, and seek prompt professional care if symptoms appear.
When should I see an optometrist?
If your child has eye redness, discharge, pain, or vision changes, visit SpecSMART Eye Clinic immediately.
📍 Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
Ikoyi Plaza, Keffi street, Ikoyi, Lagos 📞0701 820 7486
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References
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WHO. Avoidable Causes of Childhood Blindness
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Nigerian Studies on Childhood Eye Infections
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Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis Review (West Africa)
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Common Eye Infections in Children
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Childhood Eye Disease Study, Southwestern Nigeria