Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Transmission, Prevention & When to Seek Care

Conjunctivitis—commonly called pink eye—is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. It is highly contagious when caused by viruses or bacteria.

How It Spreads

• Direct contact: Touching infected eye secretions, then touching your own eyes.
• Fomites (contaminated objects): Towels, washcloths, pillowcases, eye makeup, contact lenses, or shared eye drops.
• Respiratory droplets: Viral conjunctivitis can spread via coughing/sneezing.
• Autoinoculation: Infection spreading from one eye to the other via hands.

Prevention Strategies

• Hand hygiene: Frequent soap-and-water washing; alcohol-based sanitizer if unavailable.
• Avoid eye touching: Especially with unwashed hands.
• No sharing: Personal items (towels, cosmetics, eye drops).
• Disinfect surfaces: Clean doorknobs, countertops, phones with EPA-registered disinfectants.
• Contact lens care: Strict hygiene; discard lenses/solution if infected.
• Stay home: Until discharge resolves or 24 hours after starting antibiotics (bacterial).

When to See a Clinician

• Moderate/severe eye pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision.
• Symptoms worsen or persist >1 week (viral) or >2–3 days on antibiotics (bacterial).
• Immunocompromised status, contact lens wearer, or newborn with symptoms.
• Suspected herpes simplex or gonococcal/chlamydial conjunctivitis.

Early diagnosis prevents spread and ensures appropriate therapy (antivirals, antibiotics, or supportive care).