Pink-eye

Pink-eye is an infection of the surface of the eyeball and the inside of the eyelid. Although pink-eye is often caused by a virus or bacteria, it may also occur from an allergy or exposure to a chemical (like the chlorine in a pool). Pink-eye is a common childhood disease that spreads to other people very easily. 

See a health-care provider if you think you or your child has pink-eye. 

It is a mild infection that causes the whites of the eyes to be pink or red, and the eyelid may become swollen. Eyes may also feel scratchy and have a discharge (pus) that sticks the eyes together. The child may complain of eyes being very runny and sensitive to light.

The infection spreads very easily. It may be passed to others by touching the infected eyes, then touching another person. It may be passed on contaminated objects, such as a used tissue or sometimes through droplets from a sneeze or cough of an infected person. If the pink-eye is caused by a virus, you are contagious for as long as you have symptoms (usually several days). 

Anyone can become infected. Young children and staff in group settings such as schools or childcare settings are more likely to be exposed. Parents and contacts of infected children (siblings and playmates) may also become infected. 

See a healthcare provider to determine treatment options. Antibiotics (eye drops or ointment) are often prescribed when the infection is caused by bacteria.

There is currently no Public Health response for pink-eye. 

Practice good personal hygiene. Some especially important steps include:

• don’t touch or rub the infected eye(s)
• wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching or wiping infected eyes
• do not share facecloths or towels and keep the infected person’s towels and facecloths separate from others in the household (wash infected linens in hot soapy water and machine dry)
• wash hands often to avoid spreading the virus to others
• if wearing contact lenses, do not wear them while eyes are infected and check with your optometrist before using them again
• do not use eye make-up while eyes are infected and discard any eye makeup that may have been contaminated to prevent re-infection

Use good environmental management. Thoroughly clean surfaces, especially those that are touched frequently. Wash and disinfect toys and surfaces in the home and childcare setting regularly. A chlorine-based disinfectant is recommended. 

Stay home if sick. Children should stay home from school and childcare for 24 hours after they start taking an antibiotic or as recommended by a health-care provider.

For additional information, contact your health-care provider, local Public Health office or Tele-Care 811.