How to Prevent Spreading Pink Eye

Infective conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is highly contagious, so there isn't a surefire way to avoid getting it. However, these tips should help minimize the chance for catching it or spreading it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. If someone in your household has conjunctivitis, be sure to wash your hands often and thoroughly.
2. Avoid sharing washcloths, towels, pillowcases, mascara or eyeliner with someone infected.
3. Don't touch or rub the infected eye(s).
4. Wash any discharge from eyes twice a day using a fresh cotton ball or paper towel. Remember to discard the cotton ball or paper towel and wash your hands with soap and warm water.
5. Wash bed linens, pillowcases and towels that have been used by someone with pink eye in hot water with detergent.
6. If you have pink eye, avoid wearing eye makeup. Never share eye makeup to avoid catching it and spreading it.
7. Take proper care of your contact lenses to keep them free from infection and never share contacts with others.
8. If you have pink eye, wear glasses instead of contact lenses. Throw away disposable lenses and be sure to clean extended wear lenses and all eyewear cases.
9. Wash your hands immediately after applying the eye drops or ointment that relieve or treat pink eye.
10. Do not use eye drops in a non-infected eye that were used for an infected eye.
11. For bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, keep the infected home from school or work until the infection clears.

Tips & Warnings

• Washing hands is key!
• Never share common articles like sunglasses, make up tools, etc.
• This information is not meant to replace professional medical advice. If you or your child gets pink eye--go to a doctor!