Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

Updated on January 16, 2025

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Hyperacute bacterial conjunctivitis has a short incubation period and progresses rapidly. It can be transmitted through genital-eye contact. Acute or subacute bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is highly contagious, prevalent in the spring and autumn, and is generally spread through contact with items used by an infected person. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

1min 10sec

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Acute conjunctivitis etiology

Acute conjunctivitis, also known as acute catarrhal conjunctivitis and commonly referred to as pink eye, is highly contagious. It is most often seen in the spring and autumn seasons. The infection can occur sporadically or can spread in community settings such as schools and factories. The onset of the disease is sudden, with an incubation period of one to three days. Both eyes may be affected simultaneously or one to two days apart. The inflammation is most severe three to four days after onset and then gradually lessens, with the course of the disease generally lasting less than three weeks. The most common pathogens are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Haemophilus influenzae. The pathogens can vary with the seasons; studies indicate that infections in the winter are mainly caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, while Haemophilus influenzae conjunctivitis is more common in the spring and summer.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

42sec

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What to do if conjunctivitis is accompanied by a fever?

Conjunctivitis, also referred to as acute or subacute conjunctivitis, commonly known as "pink eye," is caused by bacterial or viral infections, which can also lead to fever. It is a relatively common disease. It is important to rest, drink plenty of water, avoid staying up late, and consume a light diet with less oily food. Individual usage of washbasins and towels is recommended to prevent contagion. Treatment involves the use of anti-inflammatory and antiviral eye drops under medical supervision, typically resulting in recovery within about a week.

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Written by Zhou Qing

Ophthalmology

1min 16sec

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Conjunctivitis symptoms

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation that occurs in the thin layer of structure on the surface of the white eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis can be caused by infections such as bacteria, viruses, chlamydia, fungi, parasites, etc., and by environmental factors like sand, smoke, ultraviolet exposure, and chemical injuries from acids, alkalis, or toxic gases. It can also be an inflammatory response of the conjunctiva due to allergic or systemic diseases including tuberculosis, syphilis, thyroid disorders, or surrounding tissues of the eye such as the cornea, sclera, eyelids, nasal cavity, and sinuses. Common symptoms of conjunctivitis include red eyes, a sensation of a foreign body in the eye, burning, itching, photophobia (sensitivity to light), tearing, and increased discharge. Sometimes it can also cause eye pain.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

42sec

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Can conjunctivitis be contagious?

Hyperacute bacterial conjunctivitis, acute or subacute bacterial conjunctivitis is highly contagious and requires isolation to prevent spread and epidemics. When one eye is infected, measures should be taken to prevent infection of the other eye. Strict attention should be paid to personal and communal hygiene, advocating frequent hand and face washing, and avoiding wiping eyes with hands or sleeves. Strict disinfection of face washing utensils, towels, and medical instruments used by the patient is also necessary.

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Written by Peng Xi Feng

Ophthalmology

28sec

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Is conjunctivitis contagious?

Hyperacute bacterial conjunctivitis has a short incubation period and progresses rapidly. It can be transmitted through genital-eye contact. Acute or subacute bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is highly contagious, prevalent in the spring and autumn, and is generally spread through contact with items used by an infected person. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures.