How to Prevent Conjunctivitis

Your child finally got rid of that stubborn conjunctivitis, or pinkeye, infection. Now you're wondering, how can conjunctivitis be prevented so it doesn't happen again? While infectious conjunctivitis is very contagious, there are some ways to reduce the risk of getting it.

Instructions

Avoid Conjunctivitis

• 1

  Teach your child to wash his hands often with soap and water, scrubbing the entire time it takes him to recite the ABCs and then rinsing.

• 2

  Tell your children not to share eye drops, eye makeup, tissues, washcloths, towels or pillowcases with other people, including family members.

• 3

  Keep windows and doors closed on days with high pollen counts if your child is prone to allergic conjunctivitis. Dust and vacuum frequently.

• 4

  Tell your child to avoid rubbing or touching his eyes.

• 5

  Change towels and pillowcases frequently.

Prevent the Spread of Conjunctivitis

• 6

  Be vigilant about washing your own hands if your child develops conjunctivitis.

• 7

  Throw away used gauze, cotton balls and tissues immediately.

• 8

  Wash your child's towels and other linens in hot water separate from the rest of the family's laundry.

• 9

  Tell your child not to touch his eyes and to wash his hands after touching his infected eye if he forgets.

• 10

  Throw away all eye makeup, contact lenses and other eye care items belonging to anyone who develops an infection.

Prevent Conjunctivitis in Newborns

• 11

  Get screened for STDs if you are pregnant, because cervical infections such as chlamydia, genital herpes or gonorrhea can cause potentially blinding conjunctivitis in newborns.

• 12

  Expect treatment during your pregnancy for a confirmed STD to prevent transmission of conjunctivitis to your baby.

• 13

  Be aware that all newborns receive antibiotic ointment in their eyes immediately after birth to prevent conjunctivitis. This treatment occasionally causes a chemical conjunctivitis that usually clears on its own.