Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is a common infection affecting one or both eyes that causes the white of the eye to appear pink or red. Vision is usually normal; however, the eye may water profusely and feel irritated. Eyelids may be swollen. A discharge of liquid or mucus from the infected eye may occur. Eyelids and lashes may become crusted and stick together as the mucus hardens, particularly while sleeping. The student may complain of itching, pain, or sensitivity to light.
Conjunctivitis is commonly caused by viruses or bacteria that may first manifest in one eye and then spread to the other eye within days. Viral conjunctivitis usually produces a clear, watery discharge. Bacterial conjunctivitis usually produces a thicker, yellow-green discharge. Eyelids stuck together after sleeping are most common with bacterial conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis may also be caused from allergens, such as cosmetics or pollen; reaction to air pollutants, such as dust or smoke; and foreign bodies in the eye, such as contact lenses. Certain chronic illnesses may also cause conjunctivitis.
Here are a few ways to prevent pink eye:
- Reinforce the practice of frequent handwashing.
- Educate students not to share personal items that touch the eyes, such as towels and cosmetics.
- Educate students with conjunctivitis not to share school equipment that touches the eyes, such as microscopes.
- Remember that a source of recurrent eye infections may be contact lenses, solution, or cosmetics.
- Remind students to wear, handle, store, and clean their contact lenses as instructed by their licensed eye care provider.
- Remind students that eye cosmetics and applicators used during the infection should be discarded.
- Seek to identify and remove the source of possible eye allergens and irritants.
