A great many people in several cities of East China are suffering from viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye." Nearly 5,000 are plagued in Qingdao, with a high attack rate among teenagers, Chinese Radio Network reported.

Nanjing, Guangzhou and Ningbo have also reported cases.

A public warning has been issued by China's hygiene and disease control department about the outbreak.

Experts say the epidemic will continue for half a month and can be contained if people stay vigilant about personal hygiene.