Pink eye can be uncomfortable. During an outbreak, it’s important to clean and sanitize your environment to prevent the spread of infection and reduce the risk of recurrence.
The viral and bacterial strains of pink eye are highly contagious. Their pathogens can survive outside the human body on surfaces, potentially infecting anyone who comes into contact with them.
Depending on the conditions:
- Viral pink eye can linger on surfaces for anywhere between 8 hours and 7 days.
- Bacterial pink eye typically survives on surfaces for 24–48 hours.
What Is Pink Eye?
“Pink eye” is often used as a catch-all term for various eye issues, but it actually refers to a specific condition known as conjunctivitis.
Marked by a characteristic redness (or “pinkness”, hence its name) on the eye’s surface, it develops when the conjunctiva, a thin, transparent layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye and the inner eyelid, becomes inflamed or infected.
Once infected, blood vessels in the conjunctiva become inflamed and visible, giving the eye its characteristic pink appearance.
It may appear annoying at first, and while most cases of pink eye resolve on their own with proper care, mismanaging or ignoring pink eye can lead to long-term complications in addition to persistent symptoms.
Common symptoms to look out for include:
- Red or pink discoloration in one or both eyes
- Watery or thick, yellow-green discharge
- Gritty sensation or itchiness
- Swollen, tender eyelids
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
Types of Pink Eye
Visiting your eye doctor when symptoms arise is beneficial for an accurate diagnosis and helps determine the appropriate course of treatment, as there are several types of pink eye, including:
- Viral pink eye: Commonly associated with colds or respiratory infections.
- Bacterial pink eye: Often results in thick discharge and can persist if untreated.
- Allergic pink eye: Triggered by allergens like pollen or dust.
- Irritant-induced pink eye: Caused by exposure to smoke, chlorine, or harsh chemicals.
Is Pink Eye Contagious?
Some, but not all types of pink eye, are contagious.
Viral and bacterial pink eye are highly contagious because these pathogens spread easily through direct or indirect contact, whereas allergic and irritant-induced conjunctivitis aren’t.
Viral pink eye spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, while bacterial pink eye can transfer via contaminated hands, towels, or surfaces. Both forms thrive in environments of close physical contact, like schools or workplaces.
Precisely because of its highly contagious nature, we commonly see viral pink eye in children.
How Long Does Pink Eye Live on Surfaces?
Contagious forms of pink eye can live on surfaces because of these pathogens’ resilience outside the human body.
Bacteria and viruses can survive for extended periods on objects like doorknobs, towels, or countertops, especially in moist conditions. This longevity allows them to remain infectious and capable of causing pink eye when someone touches a contaminated surface and then rubs their eye.
With that being said, the duration of how long these pathogens can survive on surfaces depends on their type:
- Viral pink eye can survive on surfaces for up to 8 hours or even up to 7 days under favorable conditions (cool, moist environments), which explains why it is particularly contagious.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis may survive on surfaces for 24–48 hours, depending on the environment.
Surface Types & Pink Eye Spread
The material of the surface plays a role in how long the pathogens responsible for pink eye can linger:
- Non-porous surfaces: These include metal, glass, or plastic, and provide an ideal environment for pathogens to remain viable for longer because they don’t absorb moisture and are less reactive.
- Porous surfaces: Fabric or paper, for example, tend to absorb moisture, which can dehydrate and weaken pathogens quicker, shortening their lifespan.
This explains why proper cleaning and disinfection of commonly touched surfaces, along with proper hygiene, like frequent handwashing and avoiding touching the eyes, are key measures to help reduce the spread of pink eye.
During this time, it’s important to avoid using contact lenses until your optometrist has given you the green light. Instead, wear your glasses and allow your eyes to rest.
Once the infection has cleared, open a new pack of lenses, and use a new cleaning solution and storage container to prevent reinfection.
Preventing the Spread
Now that we understand certain types of pink eye are highly contagious, preventing the spread protects you and those around you.
Staying isolated during a breakout of pink eye isn’t always feasible (it’s encouraged to stay home from work or school) but practicing good hygiene can curb the chances of transmitting pink eye germs and preventing reinfection.
Here’s how to help stop the spread of pink eye:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes.
- Disinfect commonly touched objects and surfaces daily.
- Stay home from work or school if your pink eye is contagious.
- Avoid swimming in pools until you’ve resolved the condition, especially if caused by an infection.
With proper care and precautionary habits, most cases of pink eye resolve within a week or 2.
Tips for Relief
Alongside professional treatments, you can follow these tips to help manage symptoms and support recovery:
- Viral pink will typically resolve on its own and can’t be treated with antibiotics. Rest and managing symptoms are key. Avoid sharing personal items like pillows or towels.
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointments are typically prescribed for bacterial pink eye. Gently clear any discharge and strictly follow the prescribed medication regimen.
- Antihistamine drops or oral medications can help alleviate allergic pink eye symptoms. Identify and limit exposure to allergens.
- For irritant pink eye, flush the eye with cool water to remove irritants. If symptoms persist, visit your optometrist.
- Using a cold compress and artificial tears offers additional relief from symptoms.
Schedule a Visit
Managing pink eye involves not only addressing the symptoms but also taking steps to prevent its spread and avoid reoccurring infections.
If you begin to notice signs of irritation or discomfort, it’s important to take action quickly. Contact our team at Valley Eye and Vision Clinic to schedule a comprehensive eye exam, where we can guide you on the best course of treatment.