Is Pink Eye Contagious?

If you’ve ever woken up with a red, itchy, or sticky eye, you’ve likely experienced conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye. This common eye condition can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and in some cases, spread quickly from person to person. But is pink eye always contagious? And how can you prevent or treat it?

If you or your child is experiencing pink eye symptoms, here’s everything you need to know, including when to seek medical care in Northern California.

What is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelid. When inflamed, the conjunctiva makes the eye appear red or pink, often accompanied by irritation, discharge, and sensitivity to light.

Pink eye can be caused by viral infections, bacterial infections, allergies, or irritants like smoke or chlorine from pools. The cause of your pink eye determines whether or not it is contagious.

Is Pink Eye Contagious? How It Spreads

Pink eye is contagious when caused by a virus or bacteria, spreading through:

• Direct contact – Touching an infected person’s eye or secretions.
• Contaminated surfaces – Shared towels, pillowcases, or makeup.
• Respiratory droplets – Coughing or sneezing near the eyes.

Pink eye from allergies or irritants (like pollen or dust) is not contagious but can cause similar symptoms.

How Long Is Pink Eye Contagious?

• Viral pink eye – Contagious for 7-14 days, even before symptoms appear.
• Bacterial pink eye – Contagious until 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
• Allergic pink eye – Not contagious at all.

If you have viral or bacterial pink eye, avoid touching your eyes and wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading it to others.

Pink Eye Symptoms: When to See a Doctor

Pink eye symptoms can range from mild to severe. If you experience any of the following, consult a BASS Medical Group provider in Walnut Creek, Oakland, San Francisco, or the Greater Bay Area:

• Persistent redness or swelling in the eye.
• Thick yellow or green discharge that crusts over the eyelashes.
• Blurred vision or increased light sensitivity.
• Fever or facial pain, which may indicate a more serious infection.
• Symptoms lasting more than two weeks with no improvement.

Our primary care doctors and ophthalmologists can diagnose pink eye and recommend the best treatment for fast relief.

Pink Eye Treatment: What Works Best?

The best pink eye treatment depends on the cause:

1. Viral Pink Eye Treatment (Most Common)

• No antibiotics needed – It clears up on its own in 7-14 days.
• Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling and irritation.
• Use artificial tears (eye drops) to soothe discomfort.

2. Bacterial Pink Eye Treatment

• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments can speed up recovery.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms disappear.
• Do not share personal items like towels or makeup.

3. Allergic Pink Eye Treatment

• Use antihistamine eye drops to relieve itching and redness.
• Avoid allergens (pollen, pet dander, dust).
• Keep windows closed and use an air purifier in your home.

Preventing the Spread of Pink Eye in California

If you or your child has pink eye, follow these steps to prevent spreading it at home, school, or work:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water.
• Avoid touching your eyes or rubbing them.
• Disinfect shared items like phones, doorknobs, and bedding.
• Stay home from school or work until symptoms improve.

If your child has pink eye, most California schools and daycare centers require them to stay home until symptoms clear or 24 hours after starting antibiotics (if bacterial).

Need Pink Eye Treatment? Visit BASS Medical Group

If you suspect you have pink eye or need expert eye care, BASS Medical Group is here to help. Our primary care doctors across Walnut Creek, Oakland, Berkeley, and the Greater SF Bay Area offer fast, effective treatment for pink eye and other eye infections.

Book an appointment today at BASSMedicalGroup.com and get relief from pink eye fast!