Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. This condition causes the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva to become inflamed and more visible, giving the eye its characteristic pink or red appearance. Pink eye is highly contagious, especially when caused by viruses or bacteria, making it a common concern in environments like schools and daycares. Determining when a child can safely return to school depends on the cause of the infection and the educational institution’s specific policies.
How to Identify Conjunctivitis
The general symptoms of conjunctivitis include eye redness, a burning sensation, and excessive tearing. Swollen eyelids and a discharge that can cause the eyelashes to stick together are also common signs. Recognizing the specific type of pink eye is important because the symptoms and contagiousness vary significantly.
Viral conjunctivitis discharge is clear and watery, often accompanying symptoms of a common cold, such as a sore throat or runny nose. Viral infections often begin in one eye before spreading to the other and are highly contagious while symptoms are present.
Bacterial conjunctivitis, in contrast, produces a thick, colored discharge that is yellow or green. This frequently causes the eyelids to be matted or crusted shut upon waking.
Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes simultaneously, causing intense itching and excessive tearing. This type is not contagious and is associated with environmental triggers like pollen or pet dander. A healthcare provider can offer a definitive diagnosis.
Understanding School Exclusion Policies
School attendance policies for children with pink eye are designed to minimize the spread of highly contagious infections within a classroom setting.
For children diagnosed with bacterial conjunctivitis, the rule requires exclusion from school until the child has received antibiotic treatment for a full 24 hours. This 24-hour treatment period renders the child non-contagious.
If the pink eye is viral, exclusion guidelines are based on the severity of the symptoms. Since antibiotics are ineffective against viruses, children may be asked to remain home if their eyes have significant, uncontrolled watery discharge or if they are unable to stop touching their eyes. The contagious period may continue as long as signs of infection are apparent.
Allergic conjunctivitis requires no exclusion, as this condition is not infectious and poses no risk of transmission to others. Parents must contact their child’s school or daycare to confirm specific regulations, as policies vary widely by district or institution. Many schools require a doctor’s note for a child to return, particularly if medication was prescribed or if the eye discharge was severe.
Preventing Spread and Managing Symptoms
The most effective strategy for preventing the transmission of pink eye is maintaining strict hygiene practices at home. This begins with frequent hand washing using soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after touching the infected eye or applying medication. Children should be strongly discouraged from rubbing or touching their eyes to prevent the transfer of discharge to surfaces or other people.
To manage the discomfort, parents can use a clean, lint-free cloth or cotton ball to clear any discharge from the eyes several times a day. Wipe from the inner corner of the eye outward, and immediately discard the cotton ball or wash the cloth in hot water and detergent after use. Warm or cool compresses applied to the eyes can also help soothe irritation and swelling.
In a household with an infected child, personal items should not be shared. These items should be washed frequently in hot water to eliminate any remaining infectious agents.
- Towels
- Washcloths
- Pillowcases
- Bedding
If eye drops or ointments are prescribed, parents must wash their hands both before and after application to avoid contaminating the medication bottle or spreading the infection.