How long until pink eye is no longer contagious?
Oct 21, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Fagang
Introduction
"Red eye disease" refers to acute conjunctivitis. Under normal circumstances, acute conjunctivitis remains contagious for approximately three weeks. It is important to note that during treatment, patients may transmit the pathogen to those with whom they come into contact; therefore, isolation measures should be taken. In addition, patients should avoid touching their eyes with their hands and maintain good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently.
Red eye disease refers to acute conjunctivitis. Under normal circumstances, acute conjunctivitis remains contagious for approximately three weeks. The specific analysis is as follows:
In the initial stage of infection, pathogens trigger an inflammatory response in the conjunctival tissue of the eye, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and increased eye discharge. Under medical guidance, topical anti-inflammatory treatment can be administered using levofloxacin hydrochloride eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, or gatifloxacin eye drops. Over time, the immune system gradually develops resistance to the pathogen and begins eliminating it. This process typically takes about three weeks, ensuring effective clearance of the pathogen, complete resolution of inflammation, and cessation of transmission to others.
It should be noted that during treatment, patients may transmit the pathogen to individuals with whom they come into contact. Therefore, isolation measures are necessary, and others should avoid contact with the patient's eye secretions and personal hygiene items. Additionally, patients should refrain from touching their eyes with their hands and maintain good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently.
