Conjunctivitis in Children
Conjunctivitis is inflammation (swelling and redness) of the whites of the eyes and eyelids. It may be an infection caused by a bacteria or virus, which is highly contagious or due to an allergy.
Symptoms usually develop within 1-3 days after infection.
Signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis in children
- Sore, itchy, red, watery eyes.
- Swollen eyelids.
- Thick yellow discharge that may cause eyelids to stick together.
- Inability to tolerate looking into sunlight.
See your doctor for treatment, which may include antibacterial eye drops or ointment. Conjunctivitis can last from 2 days to 3 weeks. It is contagious until the discharge from their eyes has stopped, so keep them at home during this time.