A rare water-borne parasite likely spread on Darwin’s soggy fields during the wet season is behind an outbreak of severe conjunctivitis that has affected over 100 people. The NT Centre for Disease Control (CDC) identified the parasitic fungus, vittaforma corneaea, as the cause of the eye infections linked to the NT Football League (NTFL).
The CDC has urged Aussie Rules players in Darwin with conjunctivitis symptoms to contact health authorities as the outbreak’s origin remains unknown. They have also identified high-risk playing fields in Darwin where precautions should be taken.
An investigation into the outbreak revealed that keratoconjunctivitis, a severe form of conjunctivitis affecting the cornea and eye lining, is caused by the microsporidia species, vittaforma corneaea. This rare parasite infects the eye with tiny spores.
Microsporidia are single-cell parasites that can infect humans and animals, typically causing gastro-like illness. The recent outbreak in Darwin is the first time this eye infection has been seen in the Northern Territory.
Researchers have documented previous outbreaks of vittaforma corneaea infections in various locations, including swimming pools in Taiwan and among rugby players in Japan. High temperatures, humidity, and rainfall have been linked to these outbreaks.
Health authorities are advising anyone who has been on high-risk playing fields in Darwin to wash mud off their face and eyes immediately after activities. Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical help.
Positive news from optometrist Lance Chin Quan indicates that many patients are showing signs of recovery, with the eye infection clearing up and vision returning. The CDC continues to investigate the source of the outbreak.
