Long weekend: Punjab schools to remain shut on Thursday and Friday

LAHORE: Government and private schools throughout Punjab will remain closed on Thursday due to the increasing number of Pink Eye infections in the province. The decision to close schools was made by Punjab’s caretaker Chief Minister, Mohsin Naqvi.

Meanwhile on Friday, a public holiday will be observed throught the country in respect of Eid Miladun Nabi according to a gazetted notification.

Teachers have been instructed to conduct health checks of students at the main entrances of schools starting from Monday to prevent the spread of the eye infection. Students with conjunctivitis (commonly known as Pink Eye) will not be allowed to enter school premises.

Pink eye cases surge in Lahore: 85 new infections reported

The incidence of conjunctivitis cases has risen significantly in Punjab and other parts of the country. In the past 24 hours, the Punjab Health Department has reported 85 new cases of conjunctivitis (Pink Eye).

Patients have been advised to use prescribed eye drops and tissues for eye cleansing, with the option of using cold water for temporary relief. The provincial government’s health department has emphasized the importance of using hand sanitizers and has warned against touching one’s eyes without thoroughly washing hands.

Furthermore, the health department has recommended not sharing personal items with individuals suffering from eye infections, including pillows, clothing, medication, and bedding, which should be kept separate. Patients have also been cautioned against reusing facial items.

Adding a regular weekend, this will mean four days of holidays in total which could be helpful in limiting the spread of the virus in schools.