Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is an eye infection that may cause redness and discharge from the eye, sometimes with pain or itching. It can be caused by bacteria or viruses.
Download a print fact sheet:
Conjunctivitis Prevention (PDF: 98KB/1 page)
Prevent the spread of conjunctivitis
- Do not touch or rub your eyes. If your eyes itch or burn, use a tissue to wipe drainage; put the used tissue in the trash, and clean your hands.
- Clean your hands frequently with soap and water. Use a waterless, alcohol-based hand rub if hands are not visibly soiled.
- Do not share towels or washcloths with others. Assign one towel and one washcloth to each family member, and launder frequently.
- Launder your pillowcase every day.
- Do not wear contact lenses while your eyes are red or draining.
- Discard contact lens solution used before or during your eye illness.
- Disinfect contact lenses before resuming use.
- Do not share eye make-up, such as mascara or eyeliner.
- Do not share eye drops, contact lens solution or any medications.
- Stay home from school, childcare or work (especially if you are a healthcare worker or childcare provider) until the eye drainage has resolved.
Additional steps you should take:
- Wear sunglasses if light bothers your eyes.
- Do not operate machinery if your vision if blurred.
- Avoid swimming in a pool if you have eye drainage.
