Pink eye (conjunctivitis) contagiousness depends on its cause and treatment:
- Bacterial pink eye: It is contagious from the onset of symptoms until about 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotic eye drops or ointment. After 24 hours of antibiotic treatment, the risk of spreading the infection significantly decreases, and the person is generally no longer contagious
- Viral pink eye: This form is contagious before symptoms appear and remains contagious as long as symptoms such as tearing and eye discharge persist. The contagious period can last for several days to up to two weeks or more, depending on symptom duration
- Allergic pink eye: This type is not contagious at all, as it is caused by allergens rather than infection
In summary, after starting antibiotic drops for bacterial conjunctivitis, pink eye is typically no longer contagious after about 24 hours. For viral conjunctivitis, it remains contagious as long as symptoms last. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding close contact until symptoms improve is recommended to prevent spread
