How to Prevent Pinkeye

Pinkeye, also called conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the inside of the eyelids and the whites of the eye. Pinkeye can be caused by viruses, bacteria, seasonal allergies and other eye irritants such as chemicals or pollution. This type of eye infection is common in children, though adults can get pinkeye as well. Pinkeye can be prevented by practicing good hygiene.

Things You'll Need

• Hand soap
• Washing machine
• Laundry detergent
• Multiple sets of sheet and towels
• Vacuum cleaner

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands frequently, especially if someone in your household is being treated for pinkeye. People touch their faces many times during the day without even realizing it and can infect themselves easily. Lather your hands with soap and wash well before and after eating, or any time you may have come in contact with a person infected with pinkeye.

• 2

  Launder bedding and towels that have been used by the person who has conjunctivitis to avoid spreading the infection to others. Wash in hot water to kill the bacteria or virus. Repeat as needed every few days if the infection persists.

• 3

  Prevent pinkeye by assigning each person in your home his own set of towels for bathing and hand-washing. Sharing towels and other personal belongings such as pillowcases can lead to the spread of conjunctivitis.

• 4

  Make sure each person who has been diagnosed with pinkeye has her own prescription for eye drops. Sharing medications of this type can cause others to become infected.

• 5

  Buy new eye makeup to use after your treatment is completed if you have had pinkeye. Eye shadow, mascara and other beauty items that you used before your diagnosis may be contaminated and can lead to reinfection.

• 6

  Keep pollen out of your home if seasonal allergies are the cause of pinkeye. Vacuum your carpets to remove pollen and other irritants that may have been tracked inside. Close the windows and use air conditioning if possible.