Thailand’s DDC issues health alert on rising eye infections due to contaminated tap water

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued a public health alert following the discovery of a conjunctivitis outbreak affecting 200 residents in a condominium complex in the Lardphrao area in Bangkok. Investigations have revealed the presence of the parasite Acanthamoeba in the tap water supply within the condominium units.

Thai Health officials are currently conducting an in-depth disease investigation and working to ensure the water supply meets safety standards.

Dr Apichat Wachiraparn, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, expressed his concern about the situation. He explained that Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in various environmental sources such as water, soil, and dust. Although infections are rare, they can affect anyone.

When present in the eye, Acanthamoeba strains can cause acanthamoebic keratitis, which may lead to corneal ulcers or even blindness. This condition occurs most often among contact lens wearers who do not properly disinfect their lenses, exacerbated by a failure to wash hands prior to handling the lenses.

Multipurpose contact lens solutions are largely ineffective against Acanthamoeba, whereas hydrogen peroxide-based solutions have good disinfection characteristics.

Using tap water to clean lenses, or wearing lenses while swimming or bathing can also increase the risk for infection. Symptoms typically include eye pain, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and blurred vision.

Preventative measures

While serious infections, such as those affecting the brain like encephalitis or spreading throughout the body, are extremely rare, Acanthamoeba poses a higher risk to individuals with weakened immune systems. Acanthamoeba can enter the body through several routes, including the eyes (particularly in contact lens users), skin wounds, or inhalation into the lungs. Preventative measures for keratitis include regular hand washing, avoiding eye rubbing, using clean water for daily use, and avoiding poorly maintained swimming pools. Additionally, individuals should avoid sharing personal items with those suffering from conjunctivitis.

In the event of an infection, timely medical evaluation and appropriate antibiotic treatment are essential.

Dr Apichat highlighted that the rainy season often sees an increase in conjunctivitis cases, which can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. However, the following steps can help prevent the spread of the disease:

• Regular hand washing with soap and water.
• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals and not sharing personal items.
• Immediately rinse the eyes with clean water if exposed to dust or dirty water and refrain from rubbing the eyes.
• Maintaining personal and household hygiene, including regularly cleaning items such as handkerchiefs, bed linens, pillowcases, and clothing.
• Ensuring proper contact lens care and hygiene.
• Regularly cleaning water tanks and swimming pools.
• Infected individuals should avoid eye rubbing and use clean tissues or cloths to wipe tears or discharge, following medical advice.

Following the public health alert, The DDC is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as the investigation progresses. In the meantime, residents are urged to follow the recommended preventative measures to minimise the risk of infection.

For further information or concerns, the public can contact the DDC hotline at 1422.