Can you go to school with conjunctivitis?

Nov 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
For non-infectious conjunctivitis (such as allergic types), which is not contagious and presents with mild symptoms (only slight eye redness and itching) that do not affect normal study or daily activities, attending school normally is acceptable. This type of conjunctivitis cannot spread to classmates through contact. It is sufficient to avoid allergens and follow prescribed medication during school; there is no need to take special leave.

Generally, students may return to school after recovery from non-infectious or infectious conjunctivitis. However, attending school is not recommended during the acute infectious phase. If in doubt, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the conjunctivitis is non-infectious (such as allergic types), it is not contagious. If symptoms are mild—limited to slight redness and itching of the eyes—and do not interfere with normal study and daily activities, attending school is acceptable. This type of conjunctivitis cannot spread to others through contact. During school hours, avoid known allergens and follow prescribed medication instructions; there is no need to take special leave.

If the conjunctivitis is infectious (such as bacterial or viral types) and the individual is in the acute phase—with noticeable eye discharge, redness, and tearing—attending school is not recommended. These forms are highly contagious and can easily spread to classmates through shared items or rubbing the eyes. This may lead to outbreaks, and the discomfort caused by the condition can also impair concentration and learning ability. Therefore, home isolation and treatment are advised until symptoms have significantly subsided.

After developing conjunctivitis, one should first seek medical evaluation to determine the specific type. For infectious conjunctivitis, students should only return to school after full recovery and confirmation by a doctor that they are no longer contagious. Good personal hygiene practices should be maintained at school, including avoiding sharing personal items and refraining from rubbing the eyes.

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