Pink Eye

Bacterial Conjunctivitis or Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin, transparent outer tissue layer of the eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelids.  

Symptoms:

1.            redness of the whites of the eyes;

2.            infectious (pus) discharge from the eyes;

3.            redness, swelling or both of the eyelids;

4.            itching or rubbing of the eyes;

5.            crusts in the inner corners of the eyes especially upon waking from sleep. 

Incubation period: is 3 to 5 days.  

Treatment:**  Antibiotic eye drops.

Please contact your doctor should you notice any of the above symptoms.  Because this is highly contagious, the child must go home if diagnosed at school.

Please keep your child home until he/she has been treated with antibiotic eye drops for a minimum of 24 hours - 48 hours would be better for a kindergarten child who has difficulty controlling the urge to rub the eyes and then touches other children or classroom materials.

Complications:  If left untreated, corneal scarring and loss of vision may occur.  

Prevention:  Proper handwashing is essential to prevent the spread of this to other members of your family and to schoolmates.

**The use of Homeopathic Remedies such as breast milk, colloidal silver, or other home remedies is up to you, the parent.  If you choose these methods, however, your child must stay home until the infection is completely gone.