How to prevent the spread of pink eye

If you or your child has pink eye it is important to limit the potential transmission of it to the rest of your family. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a prevalent eye infection in the United States, with an estimated 6 million cases occurring annually. While children under the age of 5 are most at risk for pink eye, this condition can affect people of all ages and is not limited to any particular group.

How to prevent the spread of pink eye in Olympia

What is pink eye?

Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common and highly contagious eye condition that occurs when the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, becomes inflamed. It is important to see our eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of pink eye to prevent the spread of the infection to others.

American Family Vision Clinic

What should you do to prevent the spread of pink eye?

There are several steps you can take to prevent the spread of pink eye:

Wash your hands frequently

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of pink eye is to wash your hands regularly with soap and water. This is especially important after touching your eyes, blowing your nose, or coming into contact with someone who has pink eye.

Avoid sharing personal items

Do not share towels, pillowcases, or other personal items with someone who has pink eye. These items can harbor bacteria or viruses that can spread the infection.

Use disposable tissues

Use disposable tissues to blow your nose, and throw them away immediately after use. Avoid wiping your nose or eyes with your hands, as this can spread the infection.

Avoid touching your eyes

Try to resist the temptation to touch your eyes, as this can transfer bacteria or viruses from your hands to your eyes.

Stay home if you have pink eye

If you have pink eye, it is important to stay home from work or school until your symptoms have improved or you have seen an eye doctor who has given you more specific instructions. This will help prevent the spread of the infection to others.

If you are in the Olympia and are experiencing symptoms of pink eye, it is essential to see our eye doctor as soon as possible. Our team of experienced eye doctors are here to help diagnose and treat pink eye and other eye conditions. To schedule an appointment, you can call (360) 491-2121.

Symptoms of pink eye

The symptoms of pink eye may include:

  • Redness in the affected eye or eyes
  • Itching in the affected eye or eyes
  • Swelling of the affected eye or eyes
  • Discharge from the affected eye or eyes (can be clear, yellow, or green in color)
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Burning sensation in the affected eye or eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Crusting of the eyelashes or eyelids
  • Swelling of the eyelids

Symptoms of pink eye may vary depending on the cause of the condition. For example, bacterial pink eye is usually characterized by a thick, yellow, or green discharge, while allergic pink eye is often accompanied by itchy, watery eyes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see our optometrists for proper diagnosis and treatment. You can book an appointment by calling (360) 491-2121.

Symptoms of pink eye
Symptoms of pink eye

Symptoms of pink eye

It is important to note that pink eye can be caused by several different factors, including bacteria, viruses, allergies, and irritants. The cause of pink eye can impact the level of transmissibility, and therefore it is important to visit our optometrist to ensure you are not spreading it to others. 

  • Bacterial pink eye is usually characterized by a thick, yellow or green discharge from the affected eye and can be treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment. 
  • Viral pink eye is often accompanied by cold or flu-like symptoms and typically clears up on its own within a week or two. 
  • Allergic pink eye is caused by an allergic reaction and is characterized by itchy, watery eyes. It can be treated with antihistamine eye drops or oral medications.

Common Questions

Yes, pink eye can usually be cured with proper treatment. Bacterial pink eye can be treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment, while viral pink eye usually resolves on its own within a week or two. Allergic pink eye can be treated with antihistamine eye drops or oral medications. If you or someone you know is at risk of developing pink eye or has been diagnosed with pink eye, we encourage you to call (360) 491-2121 at American Family Vision Clinic to schedule an evaluation.
Yes, viral and bacterial pink eye is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with eye discharge or through contaminated objects such as towels or pillowcases. If you or someone you are close to may be experiencing pink eye or has been diagnosed with pink eye, we suggest contacting American Family Vision Clinic at (360) 491-2121 to schedule a consultation.
How to prevent the spread of pink eye
Dr. Zurcher cartoon

Looking for relief from pink eye? Book an emergency eye exam with us in Olympia to get the treatment you need

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of pink eye, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Pink eye is a highly contagious condition that can spread easily to others, and leaving it untreated may potentially lead to more serious eye problems.

We at American Family Vision Clinic offer caring and experienced eye care for pink eye and other eye conditions. To schedule an eye exam, please call (360) 491-2121. Patients searching for advanced medical eye care for pink eye visit our clinic from all over Washington, and we are proud to be a leading provider of emergency eye care and medical eye care services for patients from Olympia, Lakewood, Tacoma, and Lacey.

Testimonials


Such a nice optician. My grandson is only 4 and needs glasses. We were so sad, but he explained the issues, and we will follow up as he suggested.


Anna P.

I had such a good experience with the clinic. Very friendly staff and doctor, did not have to wait for long to be called, and was treated respectfully. Thanks, American Family.


June S.

Dr. Zurcher has gone above and beyond what any other eye doctor has ever done to figure out what is going on with my eyes. Very happy with American Family Vision.


Christine R.

Family Vision Clinic changed our lives! My daughter was frequently car sick, and she was getting headaches every day, often painful enough that they brought her to tears. We saw a string of doctors and therapists, but we made no progress. Finally, we found Dr. Levi Zurcher and his eye therapist Rain. After ten weeks of eye therapy my daughter no longer gets headaches, and she no longer gets car sick. Daily tears are a thing of the past. I really can’t say enough about this clinic. It was fascinating to watch Dr. Zurcher work. For the first time, someone who knew what they were doing was intently studying my daughter, really trying to figure out all of her eye issues, and his therapist Rain is one of the most patient and lovely people that I’ve ever had the good fortune to meet. We’re finished with eye therapy—yay!—and I have switched to American Family Vision Clinic for all of my family’s other eye health needs.


Lars Wulff

Very professional, yet kind and helpful. They do what they can to make the appointment comfortable. I was running a bit late, I made sure ti call. They were able to switch me with a patient who was already there, they treated me with respect, and helped my son have confidence by getting him the eye care he needed that day. Thank you so much! Would recommend to anyone. It's a blessing that they care enough to work with people who have all different types of insurance from work to state coverage.


Justin E.

The staff is friendly. The Doc is very knowledgeable. The office is family friendly and everyone is so patient with the little ones.


Amy Fagerness
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