Conjunctivitis (Apollo): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as Apollo, pink eye.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Conjunctivitis — universally known as Apollo in Nigeria — is inflammation of the thin lining of the eye, making it red, gritty, watery and sometimes sticky. Viral forms spread very easily through hands and shared towels, sweeping through schools and offices. Most cases clear within one to two weeks.
Symptoms
Red or pink eye, usually starting in one eye
Gritty or sandy feeling
Watering or sticky discharge
Eyelids stuck together on waking
Itching (allergic type)
Mild sensitivity to light
Causes & risk factors
Viral infection (highly contagious)
Bacterial infection
Allergies — dust, pollen, harmattan
Irritants such as smoke or chemicals
Treatment & self-care
Clean the eye gently with cooled boiled water, wash hands frequently, and avoid sharing towels or touching the eyes; viral Apollo clears on its own. Doctors prescribe antibiotic drops only for clearly bacterial cases and antihistamine drops for allergy. Never use urine, breast milk, salt water mixtures or shared traditional remedies in the eye.
See a doctor urgently if
Eye pain (not just grittiness) or reduced vision
Severe light sensitivity
Thick pus with a very swollen lid
No improvement after a week
Red eye in a newborn — same day
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Conjunctivitis (Apollo)?
Early signs often include red or pink eye, usually starting in one eye, gritty or sandy feeling, watering or sticky discharge. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Conjunctivitis (Apollo) be treated?
Clean the eye gently with cooled boiled water, wash hands frequently, and avoid sharing towels or touching the eyes; viral Apollo clears on its own. Doctors prescribe antibiotic drops only for clearly bacterial cases and antihistamine drops for allergy. Never use urine, breast milk, salt water mixtures or shared traditional remedies in the eye.
When should I see a doctor about Conjunctivitis (Apollo)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: eye pain (not just grittiness) or reduced vision; severe light sensitivity; thick pus with a very swollen lid; no improvement after a week; red eye in a newborn — same day.