What is viral conjunctivitis?
Viral conjunctivitis is the most common type of pink eye. Caused by adenoviruses (the same family that causes common colds), it spreads easily through hand-to-eye contact.
Symptoms peak in days 3–5 and improve over 1–2 weeks. No antibiotic helps because it's viral.
Do I have viral conjunctivitis? Common signs
If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:
What causes it
Adenovirus most commonly. Less commonly herpes simplex (HSV — needs antiviral) or varicella-zoster. Spreads via hand-to-eye contact, shared towels, contaminated surfaces.
Is it contagious?
Yes — VERY. Infectious for up to 2 weeks. Stay home from work/school during the contagious period.
If discharge is clear and watery — it's viral. Yellow-green pus = bacterial. Itchy = allergic. Three different conditions, three different treatments.
Can it be treated online?
Routine viral pink eye is well-suited to telehealth. Severe pain, vision change, contact lens wearer with red eye, history of HSV — need in-person eval.
How viral conjunctivitis is treated
Supportive care — no antibiotic. Cool compresses for comfort. Artificial tears for dryness/grit. Strict hand hygiene — don't touch eyes. Don't share towels, pillows, makeup. Discard contacts and makeup used during symptoms. Antiviral (acyclovir, ganciclovir) only if HSV.
Self-care while you wait
- Wash hands often, especially after touching face
- Don't share towels, pillowcases, makeup
- Cool compresses for comfort
- Artificial tears
- Discard contact lenses worn during illness
- Discard eye makeup
- Stay home from work/school until symptoms resolve
- Don't touch unaffected eye
How long does it last?
Peaks at day 3–5, improves over 1–2 weeks. Contagious throughout.
Frequently asked questions
How long am I contagious?
Up to 2 weeks — until eyes are no longer red or watery.
Will antibiotics help?
No. Viral infections don't respond to antibiotics.
Can I go back to work?
Most clinicians recommend staying home until eyes are no longer red and watery.
Should I wear my contacts?
No — discard ones worn during illness. Wait at least 24 hours after symptoms clear to wear new ones.
Will it spread to my other eye?
Often. Strict hand hygiene reduces this risk.
