Conjunctivitis: A Highly Contagious Eye Infection

What is conjunctivitis?

Definition:

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid. When the conjunctiva is inflamed, it becomes red, swollen, and irritated.

Causes:

Conjunctivitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacteria, viruses, allergies, and irritants. Bacterial conjunctivitis is the most common type, and it is typically caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis

• Red, itchy, or burning eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Tearing
• Crusting or discharge from the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision

Treatment for conjunctivitis

The treatment for conjunctivitis depends on the cause of the infection. Bacterial conjunctivitis is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Viral conjunctivitis usually does not require treatment and will resolve on its own within a few days.

Prevention of conjunctivitis

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent conjunctivitis, including:

• Washing your hands frequently
• Avoiding touching your eyes
• Not sharing towels or other personal items with someone who has conjunctivitis
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may have been contaminated with conjunctivitis

Conclusion

Conjunctivitis is a common and highly contagious eye infection that can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or irritants. The symptoms of conjunctivitis include red, itchy, or burning eyes, swollen eyelids, tearing, crusting or discharge from the eyes, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. The treatment for conjunctivitis depends on the cause of the infection. Bacterial conjunctivitis is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment, while viral conjunctivitis usually does not require treatment and will resolve on its own within a few days. There are a number of things you can do to help prevent conjunctivitis, including washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your eyes, not sharing towels or other personal items with someone who has conjunctivitis, and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that may have been contaminated with conjunctivitis.