Pink Eye and Kids: What Parents Need to Know

Medically reviewed by Dr. David Ramirez, Ophthalmology

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common childhood illness that frequently spreads through schools and day care centers. While it often looks alarming, most cases are mild and can be managed with proper care. Knowing how pink eye develops and how it is transmitted can help parents manage symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading infection.  

How do kids get pink eye?

Pink eye occurs when the conjunctiva — the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye, lining the eyelids — becomes inflamed. In children, the most common causes are viruses, bacteria and allergies. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis spread easily through close contact, making outbreaks common in classrooms. Because of this, encouraging frequent handwashing and disinfection of surfaces is essential. 

How can I identify pink eye?

Pink eye usually affects the surface of the eye, causing noticeable redness in the white of the eye along with symptoms such as swelling, discharge, crusting and irritation. Some children may wake up with their eyelids stuck together from dried drainage.  

Pink eye is often mistaken for other common eye conditions because many of them can cause redness, watering and irritation. A stye can look similar at first glance, but it typically appears as a single red, swollen bump along the edge of the eyelid. Rather than causing redness throughout the eye, a stye is usually limited to one area of the eyelid and may feel tender to the touch. 

How long does pink eye last?

The duration varies based on the underlying cause. Viral conjunctivitis often resolves on its own within one to two weeks, while bacterial conjunctivitis may improve in 24-48 hours with prescribed antibiotic eye drops. Allergic conjunctivitis can persist as long as allergy triggers remain present. 

How long is pink eye contagious in kids?

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can spread easily through contact with infected eye drainage. Viral pink eye is contagious for as long as symptoms are present, which may be one to two weeks. Bacterial conjunctivitis may be treated with prescription antibiotic eye drops and is typically contagious for 24 to 48 hours after treatment begins. While some cases are caused by allergies and are not contagious, it can be difficult to determine the cause based on symptoms alone. 

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can spread easily through contact with infected eye drainage. Viral pink eye is contagious for as long as symptoms are present, which may be one to two weeks. Bacterial conjunctivitis may be treated with prescription antibiotic eye drops and is typically contagious for 24 to 48 hours after treatment begins. While some cases are caused by allergies and are not contagious, it can be difficult to determine the cause based on symptoms alone.

Can my child go to school or day care with pink eye? 

Parents should check with their child's health care provider and follow school or day care policies. Lurie Children's recommends that children with conjunctivitis stay home until symptoms have resolved to avoid spreading it to others. 

When can kids go back to school after pink eye? 

Children can generally return when symptoms are improving and they are no longer likely to spread the infection. For bacterial conjunctivitis, that often means treatment has started and eye drainage has decreased significantly. 

How to Treat Pink Eye at Home 

Parents can help keep the eye area clean by gently wiping away drainage with a clean, damp washcloth and reminding children to avoid rubbing their eyes. Applying a clean compress may also help relieve discomfort. A warm compress can help loosen crusting and drainage around the eyelids, while a cold compress may soothe irritation and reduce swelling. Use a fresh washcloth for each application and avoid sharing towels or washcloths with others. 

Above all else, encourage regular and routine handwashing, with particular attention to avoiding touching the eye and then touching other objects or people. 

What if pink eye comes with a fever? 

Pink eye accompanied by a fever may indicate a broader viral or bacterial illness. Viral conjunctivitis is often associated with upper respiratory infections, so children with fever or other signs of illness should be evaluated by a health care provider.  

When to Call the Doctor 

Parents should contact a health care provider if a child experiences significant eyelid swelling, discomfort with light, worsening symptoms or symptoms that are not improving. A physician can determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment. If bacterial, physicians may prescribe antibiotic eye drops. Viral conjunctivitis typically does not require specific treatment, while allergic conjunctivitis may be treated with allergy medications or eye drops. 

How to Stop Pink Eye from Spreading to Siblings 

Handwashing is the most effective way to prevent infection. Family members should wash their hands often, avoid touching their eyes and refrain from sharing towels, bedding or clothing with an infected child. Antiviral wipes can be used to frequently wipe down and disinfect surfaces. 

Disinfecting Toys and Bedding After Pink Eye 

Good hygiene is essential to prevent reinfection and transmission. Wash bedding, towels, washcloths and clothing frequently, and avoid sharing personal items. Toys and commonly touched surfaces should also be cleaned regularly. 

Most cases of pink eye resolve without complications. With prompt treatment and careful attention to hygiene, your child can recover comfortably while reducing the risk of spreading the infection to classmates, siblings and caregivers. 

Lurie Children's Primary Care Pediatrics

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