A pink eye is the most obvious symptom of conjunctivitis, so the term "pink eye" often is used for this common eye problem that can have many different causes. A pink eye, along with itching, burning, stinging, irritation, pain, grittiness, crusting or light sensitivity, are all symptoms that provide clues about the type of conjunctivitis you could have. Contagious forms of pink eye are usually linked to bacterial or viral infections. Non-contagious pink eye can occur when eye irritants such as allergens, dust and smoke are in the environment. Coughing and sneezing can spread contagious pink eye by spraying tiny droplets from infected mucus into the air. Shared towels also can be infected, as well as table tops, counter spaces and bathrooms.
Preventing Pink Eye in Children
Because children are in close contact in day care centers and classrooms, it is difficult to avoid the spread of bacteria and viruses causing pink eye. The following information can help parents, day care workers and teachers reduce the risk of a pink eye outbreak:
- Personal items, including hand towels, should never be shared at school or at home.
- Teach children to use tissues and cover their mouths and noses when they sneeze or cough.
- Discourage eye rubbing and touching, to avoid spread of bacteria and viruses.
- Adults in schools and day care centers should wash their hands frequently and have children do the same. Soap should always be available for this.
- Antiseptic solutions should be used constantly to clean surfaces such as common toys, table tops, drinking fountains, sinks and faucet handles.
