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Pink Eye

Boy with pink eye

​Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is one of the most common and treatable eye conditions in the world in both children and adults. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and the white part of the eyeball. This inflammation makes blood vessels more visible and gives the eye a pink or reddish color.

Quiz

Key Facts

  • Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is one of the most common and treatable eye conditions in the world.
  • Most cases of pink eye are mild and get better on their own, even without treatment.
  • Pink eye that is caused by allergens or irritants is not contagious.
  • It is possible to develop a secondary pink eye infection caused by a virus or bacteria that is contagious.
  • Most hospitals are required by state law to put drops or ointment in a newborn’s eyes to prevent pink eye.

Media

  • Children in swimming pool

    The four main causes are viruses, bacteria, allergens (like pet dander or dust mites), and irritants (like smog or swimming pool chlorine) that infect or irritate the eye and eyelid lining. It can be difficult to determine the exact cause of pink eye because some signs and symptoms may be the same no matter the cause.

  • Young girl getting eye exam

    You should see a healthcare provider if, along with pink eye, you have moderate to severe pain in your eye(s), sensitivity to light or blurred vision, intense redness in the eye(s), weakened immune system, symptoms that get worse or don’t improve, or a pre-existing eye condition that may put your at risk for complications or severe infection.

  • Soapy hands and faucet

    Wash your hands. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. Avoid sharing makeup, contact lenses and containers, and eyeglasses.

  • Mother holding newborn

    A newborn baby who has symptoms of pink eye should see a healthcare provider. Pink eye in newborns can be caused by an infection, irritation, or a blocked tear duct. Neonatal pink eye caused by sexually transmitted infections, like gonorrhea or chlamydia, can be very serious.

Prevention Tips

  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
    Wash hands especially well before and after cleaning, or applying eye drops or ointment to your infected eye, and after contact with an infected person or items he or she uses. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
    This can worsen the condition or spread it to your other eye.
  • Avoid sharing makeup, contact lenses and containers, and eyeglasses. Do not share personal items, such as pillows, washcloths, towels, eye drops, makeup, contact lenses and containers, and eyeglasses.

More at CDC.gov

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