How to protect yourself and others from “Pink Eye”

People often call conjunctivitis “pink eye” because it can cause the white of the eye to take on a pink or red color. This condition of the eye is often highly contagious. Viruses, bacteria, allergens, and irritants cause it.

Signs & Symptoms

• Redness or swelling of the eye
• Burning eyes
• Itchiness
• Irritation
• Crusting of the eyelids or lashes

Transmission

• Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
• Coughing and sneezing
• Touching an object or surface with germs on it, then touching your eyes before washing your hands

Treatment

You should see seek professional medical help if you have conjunctivitis along with any of the following:

• pain in the eye(s)
• sensitivity to light or blurred vision that does not improve when discharge is wiped from the eye(s)
• intense redness in the eye(s)
• symptoms that get worse or don’t improve after 24 hours of antibiotic use

Protect Yourself and Others From Pink Eye

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap is not available
• Wash your hands after contact with an infected person or items he or she uses
• Avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands
• Do not share items used by an infected person; for example, do not share pillows, washcloths, towels, eye drops, eye or face makeup, makeup brushes

If you are experiencing any signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis, consult a doctor via Maxicare’s 24/7 Teleconsult Hotline, Videoconsult services powered by the Doctor Anywhere App, or Maxicare Primary Care Clinic (PCC). You may also visit a PCC or request HomeCare for lab tests and diagnostic procedures.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/conjunctivitis/index.html

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