Fact Sheet for School
What is it?
Conjunctivitis is a very contagious eye disease caused by bacteria.
Who gets it?
People most ofter affected are children under the age of five. However, older people can get conjunctivitis as well.
How is it spread?
Conjunctivitis is spread by direct contact with discharge from the infected eye, or by droplets from sneezing or coughing form the infected person; also from contaminated fingers, clothing, and other articles including shared eye make-up applicators. You can also spread conjunctivitis from the infected eye to the other eye.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms: redness/itching of one or both eyes, swelling of the eye lids, sensitivity to light and clear or yellow drainage from the eyes.
What is the treatment?
You need to see the doctor who will diagnose and prescribe antibiotics for treatment.
How can it be prevented?
If you are infected with conjunctivitis stay home from school until 24 hours after antibiotics have been started. Also, practice good hand washing and do not share towels, wash cloths, or eye make-up.
If you have any questions or concerns, call your local Health Department.