Conjunctivitis is a common eye infection, especially among children under five. It is an inflammation (swelling and redness) of the conjunctiva which is the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.
Causes
Conjunctivitis can be caused by an infection (virus or bacteria) which is highly contagious, or by allergic reaction which is not contagious.
Mode of transmission of conjunctivitis
- Discharge from the eyes, nose or throat of an infected person through touch, coughing or sneezing.
- Contaminated fingers or objects.
- In summertime, conjunctivitis can be spread when children swim in contaminated water.
A person with conjunctivitis will remain infectious as long as there is a discharge from the eye.
Signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis can cause redness and swelling of conjunctiva. Symptoms usually develop with 24 to 72 hours of becoming infected and last from two days to three weeks.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Both eyes are almost always infected with bacterial conjunctivitis, although it may start in just one eye. There is likely to be a gritty feeling and pus.
Viral conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis from virus may involve one or both eyes, causing red itchy eyes with a “weepy” discharge.
