What should you know about pharyngoconjunctival fever?

Pharyngoconjunctival fever is a contagious viral illness causing fever, sore throat, and red, watery eyes. It may also bring tiredness, headache, swollen glands and a cough. The illness often spreads through close contact or respiratory droplets, especially where people share indoor spaces.

The name combines inflammation of the throat with inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear surface over the eye. Eye symptoms can include burning, watering, redness and sensitivity to light. A viral cause means antibiotics do not treat the infection. Similar symptoms can occur with a Common Cold or COVID-19, so the wider pattern and local testing guidance may matter.

Avoid sharing towels, cups and eye products. Wash hands after touching your eyes and stay home while fever or significant symptoms continue, following local advice.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. A cool, clean compress may soothe irritated eyes. Use separate towels and wash pillowcases; clean hands before and after applying any prescribed eye treatment. Ask a pharmacist or clinician which fever or pain medicine is suitable for you, particularly if you are pregnant, have a long-term condition, or take other medicines. Do not use someone else’s eye drops.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are worsening, fever persists, drinking becomes difficult, or eye discharge is thick or symptoms affect vision. Seek urgent help for severe eye pain, marked light sensitivity, breathing difficulty, confusion, fainting, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Children who are unusually sleepy, hard to settle, or struggling to breathe need prompt assessment.

Could another infection explain this combination of eye and throat symptoms? Should I or my child have a test? How long should we avoid close contact, and which medicines or eye treatments are appropriate?