Health officials in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province have raised concerns about a pinkeye outbreak, urging individuals showing symptoms to seek immediate treatment.

Nomagugu Simelane, the provincial health official, reported 161 confirmed cases in various areas of the eThekwini district since last week.

Simelane emphasized the importance of personal hygiene to prevent contracting the highly contagious eye infection and halt its transmission.

Pinkeye, or conjunctivitis, is characterized by inflammation of the eyelid and eyeball tissues, often caused by viral infections. Bacterial infections or allergic reactions can also trigger this condition.

Symptoms include redness or pinkness in the eyes, conjunctival swelling, and increased tear production.