Conjunctivitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection or by an allergic reaction. The most common bacterial causes of conjunctivitis are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Staphylococcus aureus. Symptoms of bacterial infections are mucopurulent or purulent discharge. Gonococcal, chlamydia and herpes infections can also cause conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis is common and most often caused by enteroviruses. A common symptom of viral infection is serous discharge. Allergic conjunctivitis is more often found in both eyes simultaneously and itching is common. Chemicals such as those in chlorine and soaps or air pollutants can cause irritant conjunctivitis. The incubation period is 1 – 12 days. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually lasts 1 week and viral about 2 weeks.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis
• Mostly both eyes are affected, but often one starts before the other.
• The eye is red, with the blood vessels over the white of the eye more visible and swollen. • The lining of the eyelids also looks redder or pinker than usual.
• The eye is sticky, with a discharge, which is worse when you wake up.
• The eye is itchy or painful.
• Sometimes people do not like to be in bright light (photophobia).

Precautions:
• Since it is communicable hence wash hands often and well and always after touching the
affected eye.
• Keep hands away from the infected eye.
• Must not share eye drops, tissues, washcloths, towels, pillowcases, or handkerchiefs etc.
with others, including family members.
• Use washcloth, towel, and pillowcase only once and wash them thoroughly.
• Must not use other people’s eye cosmetics.
• Apply cool compresses to the infected eye(s) three to four times per day for 10-15
minutes using a
• clean washcloth each time. This should help reduce itching and swelling and provide some
comfort.
• Wash your hands frequently and keep them away from your eyes in order to reduce or
prevent recontamination.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes to decrease irritation of the area.
• Wear sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive to the light.
Treatment:
Treatment varies depending on the cause. Medications in the form of ointments, drops or pills may be recommended to help kill the germ infecting the eye, relieve allergic symptoms and/or decrease discomfort. In the case of conjunctivitis due to a viral cold or flu, the practitioner may recommend that you be patient and let it run its course.

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