Download Conjunctivitis Patient Leaflet

Conjunctivitis
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the delicate membrane covering the front
of the eye and the lining inside the eyelids. It can be caused by bacterial or
viral infections, or by allergic reactions e.g. to dust and pollen or by physical or
chemical irritation.
What are the symptoms?
If the cause of the conjunctivitis is bacterial or viral infection, the time between
the organism coming in contact with your eye and symptoms developing (the
incubation time) can vary from 24 hours up to around one month depending
on the cause. The symptoms include:
 Watery, “sticky” eyes
 Yellow or green discharge from the eyes
 Red, swollen itchy eyes
How is it spread?
Conjunctivitis can be very easily spread particularly in the early stages of the
infection. The spread of infection is most common between children and
household members. It can be spread by:
 Direct contact with eye and respiratory secretions (fluids
from the nose or mouth) of an infected person
 Touching the eyes after touching surfaces or items such as
clothing or tissues contaminated with the bacteria or virus
 By sharing towels, face flannels, make-up etc with a person
with conjunctivitis
What precautions must I take?
Handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of
infection. Hands should be washed thoroughly after:



Touching infected eyes or any items that have come into
contact with the eyes or respiratory secretions
Sneezing/nose blowing and discarding of used tissues
Administering eye drops or ointment to an infected person
Use liquid soap and ensure that family members use their own towel
and face flannel.
Contact lenses should not be worn whilst the eyes are sore.
September 2006
Will I need treatment?
As this will depend on the cause of the conjunctivitis, you should see your GP.
If your GP considers that the infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics may
be prescribed. If an antibiotic is prescribed, it is important that you complete
the course as instructed on the bottle or packet.
Will I need to stay off school/work?
Infected people should stay off nursery, school or work during the acute
stage of the infection, which is normally the first 48 hours. However if your
GP prescribes an antibiotic, you/your child may return after 24 hours of
treatment.
If you need this or any other NHS Grampian
publication in an alternative format (large print,
audiotape etc) or in another language please
contact the Health Protection Team on 01224
558520
September 2006