is Conjunctivitis contagious?

Answer 1

YES YES YES

Overview

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an infection of the conjunctiva (the outer-most layer of the eye that covers the sclera). The three most common types of conjunctivitis are: viral, allergic, and bacterial. Each requires different treatments. With the exception of the allergic type, conjunctivitis is typically contagious.



The viral type is often associated with an upper respiratory tract infection, cold, or sore throat. The allergic type occurs more frequently among those with allergic conditions. When related to allergies, the symptoms are often seasonal. Allergic conjunctivitis may also be caused by intolerance to substances such as cosmetics, perfume, or drugs. Bacterial conjunctivitis is often caused by bacteria such as staphylococcus and streptococcus. The severity of the infection depends on the type of bacteria involved.



Signs and Symptoms



Viral conjunctivitis

· Watery discharge

· Irritation

· Red eye

· Infection usually begins with one eye, but may spread easily to the fellow eye



Allergic conjunctivitis

· Usually affects both eyes

· Itching

· Tearing

· Swollen eyelids



Bacterial conjunctivitis

· Stringy discharge that may cause the lids to stick together, especially after sleeping

· Swelling of the conjunctiva

· Redness

· Tearing

· Irritation and/or a gritty feeling

· Usually affects only one eye, but may spread easily to the fellow eye



Diagnosis



Conjunctivitis is diagnosed during a routine eye exam using a slit lamp microscope. In some cases, cultures are taken to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection.



Treatment


Conjunctivitis requires medical attention. The appropriate treatment depends on the cause of the problem.



For the allergic type, cool compresses and artificial tears sometimes relieve discomfort in mild cases. In more severe cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and antihistamines may be prescribed. Some patients with persistent allergic conjunctivitis may also require topical steroid drops.



Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments that cover a broad range of bacteria.



Like the common cold, there is no cure for viral conjunctivitis; however, the symptoms can be relieved with cool compresses and artificial tears (found in most pharmacies). For the worst cases, topical steroid drops may be prescribed to reduce the discomfort from inflammation. Viral conjunctivitis usually resolves within 3 weeks.



To avoid spreading infection, take these simple steps:

· Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs and counters with diluted bleach solution

· Don’t swim (some bacteria can be spread in the water)

· Avoid touching the face

· Wash hands frequently

· Don’t share towels or washcloths

· Do not reuse handkerchiefs (using a tissue is best)

· Avoid shaking hands

Answer 2

Is Conjunctivitis Contagious

Answer 3

Very much so.

Conjunctivitis that's caused by bacteria is contagious as soon as symptoms appear and remains contagious as long as there is a discharge from the eye - or until 24 hours after antibiotics are started. Conjunctivitis that's caused by a virus is generally contagious before symptoms appear and can remain contagious as long as the symptoms last.

Because infectious conjunctivitis is highly contagious, it's a good idea to wash your hands after interacting with friends, family members, or coworkers who have the infection. (It's a good idea to wash your hands regularly, anyway!) Don't share potentially infected items like washcloths, towels, gauze, or cotton balls. This can be difficult among family members, so just do the best you can. If you have conjunctivitis, it's important to wash your hands frequently, especially after touching your eyes.

It's also a good idea not to share cosmetics, especially eye makeup. Conjunctivitis-causing bacteria can hang out on beauty products, so avoid using the testers at makeup counters directly on your eyes. And if you've already battled a bout with conjunctivitis, throw away all your eye makeup and splurge on new stuff (but don't start using your new products until the infection is completely gone).

If you wear contact lenses and you've been diagnosed with conjunctivitis, your doctor or eye doctor may recommend that you don't wear contact lenses while you have an eye infection. If you have conjunctivitis, clean your lenses carefully. Be sure to disinfect the lenses and case at least twice before wearing them again. If you wear disposable contact lenses, throw away your current pair and use a new pair.

Answer 4

Conjunctivitis that's caused by bacteria is contagious as soon as symptoms appear and remains contagious as long as there is a discharge from the eye - or until 24 hours after antibiotics are started. Conjunctivitis that's caused by a virus is generally contagious before symptoms appear and can remain contagious as long as the symptoms last.

Because infectious conjunctivitis is highly contagious, it's a good idea to wash your hands after interacting with friends, family members, or coworkers who have the infection. (It's a good idea to wash your hands regularly, anyway!) Don't share potentially infected items like washcloths, towels, gauze, or cotton balls. This can be difficult among family members, so just do the best you can. If you have conjunctivitis, it's important to wash your hands frequently, especially after touching your eyes.

It's also a good idea not to share cosmetics, especially eye makeup. Conjunctivitis-causing bacteria can hang out on beauty products, so avoid using the testers at makeup counters directly on your eyes. And if you've already battled a bout with conjunctivitis, throw away all your eye makeup and splurge on new stuff (but don't start using your new products until the infection is completely gone).

If you wear contact lenses and you've been diagnosed with conjunctivitis, your doctor or eye doctor may recommend that you don't wear contact lenses while you have an eye infection. If you have conjunctivitis, clean your lenses carefully. Be sure to disinfect the lenses and case at least twice before wearing them again. If you wear disposable contact lenses, throw away your current pair and use a new pair.

Answer 5

Conjunctivitis is a catch all phrase for infection in the conjunctiva of the eye - but 9 times out of 10 it is very very contagious!

Answer 6

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
is Conjunctivitis contagious?

Answer 7

Viral and bacterial pinkeye are contagious and spread very easily. Since most pinkeye is caused by viruses for which there is usually no medical treatment, preventing its spread is important. Poor hand-washing is the main cause of the spread of pinkeye. Sharing an object, such as a washcloth or towel, with a person who has pinkeye can spread the infection.

Pinkeye is very common. It usually is not serious and goes away in 7 to 10 days without medical treatment

Answer 8

yes it is contagious. You can now treat it with chloramphenicol an antibiotic now available without prescription at the chemist. Whilst you have the condition you should use a separate flannel and towel from others in your household. If you are a contact lens wearer you should take them out and not wear them until the infection is gone. If they are disposable get rid of them and if not you must give them a thorough clean. It is very important not to put any lenses back in until the infection is clear. f your eyes are sticky in the morning, gently wipe them clean from the inner corner to outer in one clean sweep, with cotton wool soaked in cooled boiled water use separate cotton wool for each eye. Do not share eye makeup . You are not infectious after about 3days of using the eye drops. If you have any changes in your sight then you must have a check up with your GP as there are other conditions that can cause red eye. Also see your GP if the eye is not improving after 3 days of using you drops.

Answer 9

Arh I was just at the doctors a couple of weeks ago with my child with this. It is contagious, yes but the new method is not to treat it as the eye drops can cause more harm then leaving it. It cleared up a few days later.

Answer 10

I always thought the answer was yes but a tiny doctor on tele the other day said there were two sorts, one of which isn't contagious. That's one in the eye for me, I must confess.