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Acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis in Soweto, 1982. An epidemiological investigation
Insights
An acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) epidemic in Soweto affected over 34,000 people. Analysis revealed young males faced the highest risk during this 1982 outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- An epidemic of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) occurred in Soweto in 1982.
- The outbreak lasted approximately 13 weeks, treating over 34,000 individuals.
- The overall attack rate was 34.1 per 1,000 people.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze patient records from St John's Eye Hospital.
- To identify populations at greatest risk of contracting AHC.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 3,945 patient records.
- Calculation of attack rates by sex and age group.
Main Results:
- Males exhibited a higher risk of AHC infection, with a male to female attack rate ratio of 1.8:1.
- Age-specific attack rates peaked in young adult age groups for both sexes.
Conclusions:
- Young males were identified as the demographic group at highest risk during the Soweto AHC epidemic.
- Understanding risk factors is crucial for managing future conjunctivitis outbreaks.
Abstract:
In mid-March 1982 an epidemic of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) broke out in Soweto. Over 34 000 people were treated before the epidemic subsided some 13 weeks later, the overall attack rate being 34,1/1 000. The records of 3 945 patients seen at St John's Eye Hospital were analysed, and the populations at greatest risk of contracting the disease were identified. Males were at greatest risk, with a male to female attack rate ratio of 1,8:1. The age-specific attack rates for both sexes show a similar pattern, peaking in the young adult age groups.