This type is also contagious, but usually less so after 24 hours of antibiotic drops or ointment. If medication isn’t used, bacterial pink eye is contagious as long as symptoms are present. In addition to close contact with contagious individuals, contracting this type of pink eye can stem from improper hand washing and then touching the eye, or from wearing dirty contact lenses. 

Allergic Pink Eye 

Pink eye that occurs as a result of allergies is not contagious. While still irritating, you don’t need to worry about it spreading to others. Allergic pink eye is a reaction to allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust, and may last as long as the irritant is present. 

How to Avoid Spreading Pink Eye 

Whether it’s at school, work, or your own home, pink eye can spread fast. Here are a few easy ways to help keep it from making the rounds: 

• Wash your hands often 
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes 
• Don’t share towels, washcloths, or pillowcases 
• Throw away tissues after they contact your eyes 
• Follow your provider’s instructions for drops or ointments 

If your child has pink eye, schools or daycare centers may require a doctor’s note or ask that they stay home until they are no longer contagious — usually 24 hours for bacterial pink eye, or until symptoms improve in viral cases. 

When to See a Provider for Pink Eye

If you or your child has eye irritation that isn’t getting better, or that’s accompanied by pain, vision changes, or swelling, it’s a good idea to head to urgent care. Other conditions can mimic pink eye, and in the case of bacterial infections, you’ll want to start treatment as soon as possible. 

Be Seen at Xpress Wellness Urgent Care 

At Xpress Wellness Urgent Care, we make it easy to get answers and relief for pink eye. Walk-ins are always welcome at our many locations during convenient office hours, and we offer online check-in to reduce your wait time. Our friendly, skilled team is here to help you get back to your regular routine and feel better through quick, quality care.