Thousands of eye patients targeted as Makindu free eye consultation, cataract surgery camp enters day two.

Makueni residents will enjoy free eye consultations and treatment for a week following governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr’s announcement on Monday at Makindu sub-County hospital where a free Surgical Eye Camp was launched.

Yesterday, 253 people were screened. Among those, 82 were diagnosed with cataracts, with 53 of them having cataract surgeries administered.

Cataract, mostly associated with old age, is a medical condition where the eye lens becomes progressively opaque, resulting in blurred vision or blindness.

“People have come out in large numbers. I am sure this life-changing camp will transform the health of those with vision problems. Our partners have also donated various equipment among them: autokeratometer, trial sets, operation beds, operation stools, readers, consumables, non-pharmaceutical commodities, eye drugs and others,” said Governor Mutula after launching the camp.

Mutula, who also commissioned Makindu Eye Clinic, advised those suffering from eye illnesses to take advantage of the camp as well as visit the new unit for check-ups and medication.

Governor Mutula’s move comes as a result of joint eye camp partnership between the county, AMA group, Kenya Society for the blind supported by Charity Vision and One sight and Fred Hollow Foundation-an Australian organization.