How is red eye disease transmitted to others?
Disease description:
My neighbor has gotten pink eye, and my mom told me not to look into his eyes, saying I could get infected. I don't believe it. Could you please explain how pink eye spreads from person to person?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai
"Red eye," or bacterial conjunctivitis, can be transmitted to others primarily through the following ways:
1. Direct contact transmission: When a person with red eye touches their infected eyes with their hands and then touches another person's eyes or shared items such as towels and washbasins, the pathogens can spread to others.
2. Indirect contact transmission: Items touched by someone with red eye—such as pillows, clothing, and remote controls—may carry bacteria. Others who touch these contaminated objects and then rub their eyes are at risk of infection.
3. Droplet transmission: When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, respiratory droplets from the nose or mouth may contain pathogens. If others come into contact with these droplets and subsequently touch their eyes, they may become infected.
To prevent the spread of red eye, it is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene, frequently wash hands, avoid direct contact with infected individuals, and refrain from sharing eye-related items. Individuals who are already infected should seek medical treatment promptly to avoid spreading the condition to others.
