Viral conjunctivitis: what should you know?

Viral conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin surface covering the eye. It may affect one eye first and then the other, with redness, watering, burning, a gritty feeling or clear-to-mildly sticky discharge. A cold or sore throat may occur at the same time. The infection can pass through tears, eye discharge, hands, towels, cosmetics and pillowcases. Bacterial and allergic eye problems can look similar, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

Wash hands before and after touching the eyes, clean discharge gently with a fresh damp pad, and avoid rubbing. Do not share towels, pillows, cosmetics or eye drops. Stop wearing contact lenses until the eye has recovered and a clinician says it is appropriate to restart. Cool compresses may soothe irritation. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, so do not use leftover eye medicine without advice.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for eye pain, marked light sensitivity, blurred or reduced vision, injury, swelling around the eye, or symptoms in a contact-lens wearer. Seek urgent help if vision changes suddenly or severe pain develops. A GP consultation can help distinguish viral conjunctivitis from conditions needing different treatment.

Ask whether the discharge and redness fit a viral infection, how long to avoid contact lenses or close contact, and which eye symptoms should trigger urgent review.