How many days until pink eye is no longer contagious?
Oct 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Fagang
Introduction
"Red eye" usually refers to conjunctivitis. Generally, there is no such thing as the infection becoming non-contagious after a few days without conjunctivitis, because conjunctivitis remains contagious from the incubation period through recovery. Therefore, it is typically only after complete recovery that the condition is no longer infectious. Note that during treatment, one should maintain good eye hygiene, follow a balanced diet, and avoid spicy or irritating foods.
Red eye disease usually refers to conjunctivitis. Generally speaking, there is no such thing as "conjunctivitis becoming non-contagious after a few days," because conjunctivitis remains contagious from the incubation period through recovery. Therefore, it typically only stops being contagious once fully cured. The details are as follows:
During the acute phase, conjunctivitis symptoms appear suddenly and severely, often affecting both eyes. Common signs include conjunctival congestion, eyelid swelling, pain, and large amounts of watery or purulent discharge. Typically, one eye becomes affected first, with the other eye becoming involved within several days. Conjunctivitis remains contagious throughout the entire course—from incubation to recovery—so it is generally only after complete healing that the infection is no longer transmissible. If conjunctivitis is present, treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as acyclovir tablets or ganciclovir injection.
Note: During treatment, maintain good ocular hygiene, follow a balanced diet, and avoid spicy or irritating foods. Refrain from watching TV or using mobile phones and computers to prevent eye strain. Use separate towels and washbasins to avoid spreading the infection to others.
