Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common and highly contagious condition that affects both children and adults. In kids, it’s one of the leading causes of school absences, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimating nearly 3 million missed school days per year due to pink eye. While it often resolves on its own, knowing when to be concerned is key to preventing complications and avoiding its spread to others.

what is pink eye?

Pink eye is a general term that refers to inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and the white part of the eyeball. Pink eye in kids can be caused by infections (either viral or bacterial), allergens (like pollen or pet dander), or irritants (like chlorine from swimming pools). In toddlers, pink eye is especially common because they are more likely to touch their eyes with unwashed hands.

pink eye vs allergies

It can be difficult to tell the difference between pink eye and allergies. Allergic conjunctivitis usually affects both eyes, causes intense itching, and is accompanied by other allergy symptoms such as sneezing and nasal congestion. Unlike bacterial or viral pink eye, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.

Viral or bacterial pink eye typically causes redness, discharge and crusting around the eyes. If your child has a fever or cold symptoms, it’s more likely to be infectious rather than allergy-related.

symptoms of pink eye in kids

Recognizing the symptoms of pink eye can help you determine whether your child needs medical attention. Some of the most common signs of pink eye in kids include:

• Redness in one or both eyes
• Watery or thick yellow/green discharge
• Crusting on the eyelids, especially in the morning
• Eye discomfort or itching
• Sensitivity to light
• Swollen eyelids

signs of pink eye in kids vs toddlers 

While the symptoms are largely similar, pink eye on a toddler may look slightly different. Toddlers might be more irritable or fussy, rub their eyes frequently, or have difficulty communicating discomfort. You might notice them avoiding bright light or waking up with their eyes sealed shut due to crusting.

types of pink eye

There are two main types of infectious pink eye in kids, bacterial and viral, each with different symptoms and treatments. Knowing the difference helps determine the right care and how long your child may be contagious.

viral pink eye 

This is the most common type of pink eye and is usually associated with cold-like symptoms. It often starts in one eye and spreads to the other. The discharge tends to be watery rather than thick, and symptoms usually improve on their own within a week.

bacterial pink eye 

Bacterial pink eye, on the other hand, causes thick, yellow or green discharge and significant crusting. Both eyes may be affected, and symptoms tend to worsen if untreated. This form of pink eye often requires prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments.

pink eye treatment for kids 

Treatment for pink eye in kids depends on the cause:

• Viral pink eye: Typically resolves on its own. You can help by gently cleaning the eyes with warm water and applying a clean, damp cloth. Encourage your child to avoid touching their face and to wash their hands often.
• Bacterial pink eye: Requires antibiotic treatment prescribed by a pediatrician. After 24 hours of antibiotic use, your child is generally no longer contagious.
• Allergic pink eye: Antihistamine medications, eye drops and avoiding known allergens can help relieve symptoms.

how long is pink eye contagious? 

• Viral pink eye: Your child may be contagious for up to a week, including 24 hours before symptoms appear. Keep your child home until the redness subsides and they feel better.
• Bacterial pink eye: Children are generally not contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotic eye drops. Discharge and redness should begin to clear soon after treatment starts.

should you keep your child home with pink eye? 

Whether or not to keep your child home depends on the severity of symptoms and your child’s ability to participate in daily activities.

• For viral pink eye, children who feel well enough can sometimes return to daycare or school, especially if the facility allows it and others have already been exposed.
• For bacterial pink eye, most schools require a full 24 hours of antibiotic treatment before allowing children back.
• If your child is experiencing discomfort, excessive tearing or discharge, or is having difficulty keeping their eyes open, they should stay home until symptoms improve.

what to do if you suspect pink eye in your child 

If you notice signs of pink eye in your child or toddler, schedule a visit with their pediatrician to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment. If their pediatrician  is unavailable, visit a Dayton Children’s Kids Express location for quick and convenient care.

what happens when pink eye goes untreated? 

In many cases, viral pink eye will go away on its own without treatment. However, untreated bacterial pink eye can lead to worsening symptoms, potential spread to other areas of the eye and prolonged discomfort. In rare cases, it can result in more serious infections that affect vision. That’s why pink eye treatment for kids should be guided by a medical provider when symptoms are severe or persistent.

how do kids get pink eye? 

Kids can get pink eye through:

• Touching infected surfaces and then touching their eyes
• Sharing towels, pillowcases or eye makeup
• Coming into contact with someone who has an active infection
• Being exposed to allergens or irritants

Because toddlers and young children often touch their faces and may not wash their hands properly, pink eye in a toddler is very common. Teaching hand hygiene and avoiding eye rubbing are key steps in prevention.

when to seek medical care for pink eye 

Call your child’s pediatrician if:

• Symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a few days
• Your child is experiencing significant eye pain or vision changes
• The eye is swollen shut or has excessive crusting
• You’re unsure whether the pink eye is viral, bacterial, or allergy-related

If your child’s pediatrician is unavailable, visit one of Dayton Children’s Kids Express locations. View wait times and save your spot online.