02/07/2026
๐๐ญ'๐ฌ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐ฌ๐จ๐ง ๐จ๐ ๐๐ข๐ง๐ค ๐๐ฒ๐.
We are in Wisconsin and like other viral infections, pink eye occurrences tend to spike in the winter months. Unlike some eye diseases or conditions it is usually mild and very treatable.
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is extremely common in children, frequently spreading through daycare centers, schools, and playgrounds due to its highly contagious nature. It is one of the leading causes of school absences in the U.S., accounting for nearly 3 million missed school days annually. It is usually caused by viruses or bacteria, causing red, itchy, and sometimes crusty eyes, but is typically mild.
How can you help your child avoid it?
โข Encourage frequent handwashing.
โข Avoid sharing towels, pillows, or eye makeup.
โข Keep children home until the contagious period (usually 24 hours after treatment begins) has passed.
๐๐ข๐ง๐ค ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ญ๐ซ๐๐๐ญ๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐๐ฉ๐๐ง๐๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐:
Bacterial infections require prescription antibiotic drops or ointment, while viral cases usually clear on their own in 1โ2 weeks. For symptom relief, use warm or cool compresses, lubricating eye drops (artificial tears), and avoid wearing contact lenses until fully recovered.
If you suspect you or your child has pink eye and would like to see one of our optometrists to confirm or for treatment, contact our office today at ๐๐๐-๐๐๐-๐๐๐๐.
