What should you know about HSV conjunctivitis?

HSV conjunctivitis may cause a red, watery, irritated eye, eyelid swelling, and sometimes eye discharge. Light sensitivity, blurred vision, or significant pain raises concern for corneal involvement rather than simple conjunctivitis. A clinician may examine the eye closely and ask about cold sores, previous episodes, contact-lens use, and immune problems.

Arrange a prompt GP or eye assessment, especially if symptoms are one-sided, painful, or affecting vision. Wash hands before and after touching the face, avoid rubbing the eye, and do not share towels, cosmetics, or eye drops. Avoid contact lenses until a clinician says they are safe. Antibiotics do not treat a viral HSV infection unless a clinician finds a separate bacterial problem.

Seek urgent eye care for reduced vision, marked light sensitivity, severe pain, a cloudy-looking cornea, or rapidly increasing redness or swelling. Babies, people with weakened immunity, and anyone with a previous herpes eye infection should seek advice promptly. Do not use steroid eye drops unless an eye clinician has prescribed them for this episode.

Could the cornea be affected? Do I need antiviral treatment or an eye specialist? Should I stop contact lenses or any eye drops? How can I reduce transmission to others?