Is Pink Eye Contagious? What You Should Know

Woke up with a red, itchy, or sticky eye? You might have conjunctivitis—better known as pink eye. This common condition can cause discomfort and blurry vision and, in many cases, it spreads easily from person to person.

But is pink eye always contagious? Not necessarily.

Here’s what to know about the different types of pink eye, how it spreads, how to treat it, and when to see a doctor at BASS Medical Group.

What Is Pink Eye?

Pink eye is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of your eye and inside your eyelid. When inflamed, the eye often appears red or pink and may become:

• Itchy or irritated
• Watery or crusted over
• Sensitive to light

Common causes of pink eye include:

• Viruses (most common)
• Bacteria
• Allergies (like pollen or pet dander)
• Irritants (like smoke, dust, or pool chemicals)

The cause determines how contagious it is—and how to treat it.

Is Pink Eye Contagious?

Yes, but only when it’s caused by a virus or bacteria. These types are easily spread through:

• Direct contact – Touching infected eyes or fluids
• Shared items – Like towels, pillowcases, or cosmetics
• Coughing or sneezing – Droplets near the face

Pink eye caused by allergies or irritants is not contagious, though the symptoms may look similar.

How Long Is Pink Eye Contagious?

• Viral pink eye: Contagious for 7–14 days, even before symptoms start
• Bacterial pink eye: Contagious until 24 hours after starting antibiotics
• Allergic pink eye: Not contagious

Pro tip: If you or your child has contagious pink eye, avoid touching your face and wash your hands often to help stop the spread.

Pink Eye Symptoms: When to See a Doctor

Pink eye symptoms can range from mild to more serious. You should see a provider if you notice:

• Persistent redness or swelling
• Yellow or green discharge that crusts over lashes
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
• Fever or facial pain
• No improvement after two weeks

At BASS Medical Group, our Primary Care Providers can help evaluate your symptoms, determine the cause, and get you or your child on the right treatment plan.

Best Pink Eye Treatments by Type

Viral Pink Eye (Most Common)

• Usually clears on its own in 7–14 days
• Use cold compresses and artificial tears
• No antibiotics are needed

Bacterial Pink Eye

• Treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointments
• Avoid contact lenses until symptoms resolve
• Don’t share personal items like towels or makeup

Allergic Pink Eye

• Use antihistamine eye drops for itching
• Reduce exposure to allergens (e.g., pollen, pet dander)
• Keep windows closed and consider an air purifier

How to Prevent the Spread of Pink Eye

To protect yourself and others—especially in schools, daycares, or workplaces—follow these steps:

• Wash your hands regularly
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
• Disinfect shared items (phones, keyboards, bedding)
• Stay home if symptoms are severe or contagious

‍In California, schools often require children to stay home until pink eye symptoms clear or 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.

Get Treated for Pink Eye at BASS Medical Group

Think you or your child may have pink eye? Our Primary Care team at BASS Medical Group is here to help.

With convenient locations across Walnut Creek, Oakland, Berkeley, and the Greater Bay Area, our providers can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend fast, effective treatment.

Book an appointment today and get relief from pink eye—fast.