This eye infection seems to be going through cycles. The day before yesterday I thought it was clearing up, however, it came back again. There are now five of us that have contracted it (me, second of the five), and there are two more that are experiencing the 'onset' symptoms this evening. Yesterday afternoon two of us ('the infected') went back to Sorong to have our eyes checked by an ophthalmologist there. Although I'm not 100% in his diagnosis, I certainly feel better having seen a doctor, and he prescribed us some eye drops with anti-bacterial properties (but no oral anti-biotics). We came straight back this morning, and hardly missed any of the workshop.

I have reported the infection (via CUSO) to the insurance company and asked them to check up on the medications, and whether they think they fit the symptoms. I was joking with a friend via email, that maybe I would be able to convince the insurance company that I need re-patriation... you know, just in time for the holidays!?! Haha! No, it seems the doctor is quite sure this is not Trachoma, and only conjunctivitis, and will be better within the week.

We have decided to shorten the workshop back from 12 days to 7, cutting out all the field-testing. It's obvious that this infection is highly contagious, so we are afraid of bring the ailment to remote communities with already questionable health standards where access to medications is impossible!

So... will be back to Sorong on Dec. 3!