Microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis
Microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis (MKC) is an eye infection that affects the clear front surface of the eye (cornea) and the thin lining covering the white part of the eye (conjunctiva).
In 2026, several cases caused by the microsporidia species Vittaforma corneae were reported in the Top End of the Northern Territory.
Where it's found
Microsporidia are tiny fungi that occur naturally in the environment.
This microorganism can be found in soil, mud and water around the world.
Infection can occur when spores from contaminated soil, mud or water enter the eye.
How it spreads
Microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis is not known to spread from person to person.
People can become infected when their eyes are exposed to contaminated soil, mud or muddy water.
This may happen during outdoor activities, sports or work in wet and muddy conditions.
Symptoms can develop from a few days to several weeks after exposure.
Who's at risk
Anyone who has contact with soil, mud or muddy water can develop microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis.
People at higher risk include those who:
- play outdoor sports on muddy fields
- work outdoors in wet conditions
- take part in activities involving close contact with soil or mud
- are exposed to floodwater or waterlogged areas during heavy rainfall.
In the Northern Territory, cases have been linked to people playing sport on wet and muddy grounds during the wet season in Darwin.
Seasonal risk
There is a higher chance of developing microsporidial keratoconjunctivitis during the Top End wet season from October to April.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually affect one eye, but both eyes can sometimes be affected.
Symptoms may include:
- red eye
- watery eye
- itching or irritation
- eye pain or a feeling that something is in the eye
- blurred vision
- sensitivity to light
- eye discharge.
These symptoms can be similar to other types of conjunctivitis (pink eye).
Treatment
Treatment should be guided by an eye specialist (ophthalmologist).
Many mild infections improve with supportive care and prescribed eye drops.
Some infections can last for several weeks and may require additional treatment.
Early assessment is important to help prevent complications and protect vision.
Seek advice from your GP or optomotrist if you develop eye redness, pain, blurred vision, discharge or sensitivity to light after contact with soil, mud or muddy water.
Prevention
To reduce your risk:
- avoid unnecessary contact with heavily muddy or waterlogged areas
- wash your hands and face after contact with mud or muddy water
- avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- rinse your eye immediately with clean water if mud enters the eye
- wear appropriate eye protection where exposure to mud, soil or contaminated water is likely.
Early cleaning of the eyes after exposure and prompt medical assessment of symptoms can help reduce the risk of complications.
Information for health professionals
To find out more, go to the NT Health website.
Contact
Contact your nearest Centre for Disease Control on the NT Health website.