Conjunctivitis is a common eye infection in young children. Bacterial conjunctivitis, which is of most concern in the child care setting, occurs often in children under 5 years of age. Viral conjunctivitis is often found along with the common cold or other mild cold-like illnesses. 

Symptoms
Bacterial: Pink or red conjunctiva (membrane that covers the eye), white or yellow eye discharge (pus), often with matted eyelids after sleep, and eye pain or redness of the eyelids. May affect one or both eyes.

Viral: Pink conjunctiva with a clear, watery eye discharge, eye pain, or eyelid redness. Can occur with symptoms of cold, flu, or other respiratory infection. Usually begins in one eye and may spread to the other eye within days.

Allergic: Itching, redness, excessive tearing, usually of both eyes. May occur with symptoms of allergies, such as itchy nose, sneezing, scratchy throat, or asthma. 

Chemical: Red, watery eyes, especially after swimming in chlorinated water 

Exclusion
Child Care and School: None, unless the child is unable to participate and staff determine they cannot care for the child without compromising their ability to care for the health and safety of the other children. 

Prevention/Control

1. Keep children’s eyes wiped and free of discharge. Avoid contact with eye drainage. Encourage children not to rub their eyes. 

2. Cover nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing. 

3. Dispose of contaminated tissues properly. 

4. Frequent, careful hand washing by child care staff, children, and household members. 

5. Clean, rinse with clean water, then sanitize mouthed toys at least daily and when soiled. Try to prevent sharing of toys when conjunctivitis is present.

Is it Reportable?

Parents/guardians: Inform your school/child care provider if your child has this illness.