Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is contagious for different durations depending on its cause:
- Viral pink eye is highly contagious as long as symptoms like tearing, redness, and discharge persist, typically for about 5 to 14 days, but it can sometimes last up to two weeks or longer. It can also be contagious a day or so before symptoms appear
- Bacterial pink eye is contagious from the onset of symptoms until about 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Without treatment, it may remain contagious for about a week. With antibiotics, symptoms usually improve within 3-4 days, and contagion risk decreases accordingly
- Allergic pink eye is not contagious since it is caused by allergens, not an infection
In general, pink eye remains contagious as long as there is eye discharge or redness. Good hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the eyes, and not sharing towels or pillows are important to prevent spreading the infection
. People with bacterial pink eye can usually return to school or work 24 hours after starting antibiotics if symptoms improve, while viral pink eye may require staying home until symptoms resolve, often between 2 to 7 days after onset
. Summary:
- Viral pink eye contagious: ~5 to 14+ days, including before symptoms
- Bacterial pink eye contagious: Until 24-48 hours after antibiotics start
- Allergic pink eye: Not contagious
Good hygiene reduces spread risk throughout the contagious period.
