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Pink Eye - Conjunctivitis


Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the infection?

Conjunctivitis cannot always be prevented. Some helpful measures include:

  • avoiding makeup, towels, linens, and other objects from an infected individual
  • practicing good lid hygiene, by rubbing the eyelids without soap under the water stream when showering
  • using good handwashing when coming into contact with a child or adult who has conjunctivitis
  • using safety glasses during work or hobbies in which debris is flying around in the air
  • What are the long-term effects of the infection?

    If the cornea becomes infected or inflammation spreads to the eyelids, more serious problems such as cellulitis could occur. Cellulitis is an infection that can lead to abscesses, or pus pockets, and tissue destruction.

    What are the risks to others?

    Some forms of conjunctivitis are contagious from person to person.