Fijians are urged to practice good personal hygiene especially with the increase in cases of Conjunctivitis or Cika in some parts of the country.

The Health Ministry says Fijians with the infection need to seek medical attention if it does not clear up within seven to fourteen days.

With the infection being contagious, the Ministry is advising the public to wash their hands daily, not to share towels or washcloths, change pillowcases often and not to share eye cosmetics or personal eye care items.

Some of the symptoms of conjunctivitis include, pink or red colour in the white of the eye, swelling of the conjunctiva, increased watery eyes, itching, irritation, or burning, discharge of pus, crusting of eyelids or lashes and sensitivity to bright light.

Artificial tears and cold packs can be used to relieve the dryness and inflammation caused by conjunctivitis.

Conjunctivitis is a common and usually mild infection of the eye caused by viruses, bacteria or allergies.