Acute conjunctivitis

Early, accurate diagnosis can lead to the initiation of appropriate treatment and/or isolation, which may limit the spread of disease and reduce ocular morbidity. Patients should be advised to practice cautious hygiene measures, such as not sharing towels, to prevent spread of infection to others.

Vaccination against herpes zoster is strongly recommended in people ages 50 years and older.[1]​Cheung, Albert Y. et al. Conjunctivitis preferred practice pattern. Ophthalmology. 2024 Feb 12;131(4): 134-204. https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(24)00009-5/fulltext ​​[46]​Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Adult immunization schedule by age (addendum updated June 27, 2024). Nov 2024 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/imz-schedules/adult-age.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/hcp/imz/adult.html

Eye protection can protect people at risk of chemical and toxin exposure.​[1]​Cheung, Albert Y. et al. Conjunctivitis preferred practice pattern. Ophthalmology. 2024 Feb 12;131(4): 134-204. https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(24)00009-5/fulltext

Patients with a history of allergic conjunctivitis should avoid known allergens.

Patients with infectious conjunctivitis should consider measures to prevent the spread of disease, including frequent hand washing, no sharing of towels or bedding, and time away from work, school, or daycare.