What should you know about contagious pink eye?

Infectious conjunctivitis can pass when discharge or respiratory secretions reach another person’s hands, eyes or nearby surfaces. Touching the affected eye and then a towel, phone, pillow or door handle can help germs move between people. Allergy-related or irritant conjunctivitis is not spread in this way. Because the cause cannot be confirmed from redness alone, use careful hygiene while symptoms are present.

Wash hands with soap and water after wiping the eye, blowing the nose or applying drops. Do not share towels, pillows, cosmetics, eye drops or contact-lens equipment. Wash or replace items that touch the eyes, and avoid rubbing them. Keep discharge-covered tissues away from other people and clean frequently touched surfaces. Stay home from close-contact activities when symptoms are difficult to control, and ask a clinician or workplace about return arrangements.

Arrange prompt assessment for eye pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, pronounced swelling, injury or redness in a contact-lens wearer. Sudden vision change or severe pain needs urgent help. Seek review if symptoms are worsening, discharge is persistent, or someone vulnerable at home develops eye symptoms.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest an infectious cause, how long to take extra precautions, when close contact is reasonable, whether treatment is needed, and which household items should be cleaned or replaced.