‘Apollo’ Eye Infection Spreads in Bauchi, Assembly Speaker Affected

A highly contagious eye infection popularly known as “Apollo” is spreading across Bauchi State, with the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Abubakar Suleiman, among those affected.

Suleiman disclosed his condition in a post on his Facebook page on Sunday, saying he woke up with the infection and urging residents to take precautions to prevent further transmission.

“By God’s grace, I woke up today with a highly contagious eye infection commonly known as ‘Apollo,’ which is currently spreading across Bauchi State,” the Speaker wrote.

The infection, medically known as conjunctivitis, affects the conjunctiva—the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.

Suleiman expressed concern over the spread of the infection and urged residents to remain vigilant, maintain good hygiene and take appropriate preventive measures.

He also advised people to avoid sharing personal items that could facilitate transmission within households, schools, offices and other crowded environments.

Apollo can spread through close contact with an infected person, contaminated surfaces or personal items, especially when people touch their eyes without washing their hands.

Items that may contribute to transmission include towels, handkerchiefs, pillowcases, washcloths, cosmetics and other eye-care products.

Residents are advised to wash their hands regularly with soap and clean water, avoid rubbing or touching their eyes and refrain from sharing personal belongings.

People who develop symptoms such as red or swollen eyes, excessive tearing, discharge, irritation or sensitivity to light should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Health professionals also caution against self-medication or the use of unverified substances in the eyes, as similar symptoms may sometimes be associated with conditions requiring prompt medical attention.

Contact-lens users who develop symptoms should stop wearing their lenses and seek advice from an eye-care professional.

The Bauchi outbreak comes amid reports of similar cases in other northern states. The Yobe State Specialist Hospital in Potiskum recently confirmed cases of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis, also popularly called Apollo.

The hospital warned that the actual number of infections could be higher because some residents may be treating themselves without reporting to health facilities.

The development has raised concerns about the potential for rapid transmission in communities where residents live or work in close proximity. Schools, markets, public offices and healthcare facilities may require additional attention because of frequent person-to-person contact.

Public health authorities are expected to intensify awareness campaigns and encourage residents to report suspected cases promptly. Early reporting can help health officials monitor the spread and provide appropriate guidance to affected communities.

For now, the Speaker’s disclosure has drawn public attention to the outbreak and reinforced the need for residents to observe basic hygiene, avoid sharing personal items and seek professional care when symptoms appear.