How long can the germs from “pink eye” live on surfaces (i.e.. door knobs, toys, books)?
Was pretty sure of this one, but checked the Mayo Clinic webpage. There are different causes for what we call ‘pink eye’ or conjunctivitis. The most common is a bacterial infection. “Viral conjunctivitis and bacterial conjunctivitis may affect one or both eyes. Viral conjunctivitis usually produces a watery or mucous discharge. Bacterial conjunctivitis often produces a thicker, yellow-green discharge and may be associated with a respiratory infection or with a sore throat. Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis can be associated with colds. Both viral and bacterial types are very contagious. Adults and children alike can develop both of these types of pink eye. However, bacterial conjunctivitis is more common in children than it is in adults.” Since both are contagious, it is wise to make sure everything touched by the child is cleaned. A big pain, I know, but necessary to keep the infection from spreading. How long is it contagious? Seven to fourteen days after the first symptoms app
