Pink eye — also known as conjunctivitis — is one of those things that seems to spread like wildfire, especially among children. It’s uncomfortable, inconvenient, and if you or a loved one has it you’re probably desperate to know: how long is pink eye contagious? The answer depends on the type of pink eye, but we’re here to walk you through the differences and treatment options.
What is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, occurs when the clear, thin tissue that lines your eyelid and eye itself becomes irritated or infected. The result is a red, itchy, watery eye. Sometimes there’s crusting or discharge, especially when you first wake up in the morning. It’s no fun — but thankfully it’s easy to treat.
There are a few different types of pink eye:
- Viral (the most contagious)
- Bacterial (also contagious)
- Allergic (not contagious)
How Long is Pink Eye Contagious?
Viral Pink Eye
If a pink eye infection is caused by a virus (often the same one that causes the common cold), it’s contagious as long as there are symptoms — especially redness and discharge. This can last anywhere from a few days to 2 weeks. This type can also spread to both eyes.
Bacterial Pink Eye
This type is also contagious, but usually less so after 24 hours of antibiotic drops or ointment. If medication isn’t used, bacterial pink eye is contagious as long as symptoms are present. In addition to close contact with contagious individuals, contracting this type of pink eye can stem from improper hand washing and then touching the eye, or from wearing dirty contact lenses.
Allergic Pink Eye
Pink eye that occurs as a result of allergies is not contagious. While still irritating, you don’t need to worry about it spreading to others. Allergic pink eye is a reaction to allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust, and may last as long as the irritant is present.
How to Avoid Spreading Pink Eye
Whether it’s at school, work, or your own home, pink eye can spread fast. Here are a few easy ways to help keep it from making the rounds:
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Don’t share towels, washcloths, or pillowcases
- Throw away tissues after they contact your eyes
- Follow your provider’s instructions for drops or ointments
If your child has pink eye, schools or daycare centers may require a doctor’s note or ask that they stay home until they are no longer contagious — usually 24 hours for bacterial pink eye, or until symptoms improve in viral cases.
When to See a Provider for Pink Eye
If you or your child has eye irritation that isn’t getting better, or that’s accompanied by pain, vision changes, or swelling, it’s a good idea to head to urgent care. Other conditions can mimic pink eye, and in the case of bacterial infections, you’ll want to start treatment as soon as possible.
Be Seen at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care
At Xpress Wellness Urgent Care, we make it easy to get answers and relief for pink eye. Walk-ins are always welcome at our many locations during convenient office hours, and we offer online check-in to reduce your wait time. Our friendly, skilled team is here to help you get back to your regular routine and feel better through quick, quality care.
