Neisseria gonorrhoeae in neonates. Clinical Features Excessive tears, irritation and redness of eyes, followed by oedema of lids, photophobia and mucopurulent discharge which usually lasts from two days to two to three weeks. Viral conjunctivitis can cause a similar clinical picture. A blocked tear duct predisposes to recurrent infection. Public Health Significance and Occurrence A common communicable disease, frequently epidemic, affecting children under five years of age.
Occurrence is worldwide.
Method of Diagnosis Microscopic examination of a smear or bacteriologic culture of the discharge. Discharge from the conjunctivae or upper respiratory tract of infected persons. Infected mothers during vaginal delivery. It is infectious while there is discharge. Susceptibility and Resistance Children under five years are most often affected.