The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi
Department of Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology (DIPHE)
Infection Alert: Conjunctivitis
01st September 2023
For Internal Communication Only
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye/red eye, is a common eye infection that can be highly contagious. We
are seeing a sudden increase in the number of patients presenting with eye infections from the community.
Key presenting complaints:
• Pink or red color in the white part of the eye(s).
• Swelling of the conjunctiva.
• Itching, irritation, and/or burning.
• Crusting of eyelids or lashes, especially in the morning.
• Discharge (pus or mucus) from the eye.
• Increased tear production.
Incubation period:
• Symptoms appear within 5-12 days.
Mode of Transmission:
• Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands.
• Through the air when coughing and sneezing.
• Touching an object or surface with germs on it, then touching your eyes before washing your hands.
When to go back to work or school:
• If you have conjunctivitis but do not have a fever or other symptoms, you may be allowed to remain at
work or school with your doctor’s approval.
• If you still have symptoms, and your activities at work or school include close contact with other people,
you should not attend.
Infection Control Measures:
• Keep your hands clean by washing them with soap and water or using hand sanitizers.
• Avoid touching your eyes.
• Do not use the same eye drop dispenser/bottle for your infected and non-infected eyes.
• Wash pillowcases, sheets, washcloths, and towels often in hot water and detergent; wash your hands
after handling such items.
• Do not wear contact lenses during the duration of the infection.
• Do not share personal items, such as pillows, washcloths, towels, eye drops, eye or face makeup,
makeup brushes, contact lenses, contact lens storage cases, or eyeglasses.
Reference:
1. https://www.cdc.gov/conjunctivitis/index.html