Also known as conjunctivitis, pink eye is an infection that can be caused by bacteria or a virus. Since it’s highly contagious, it’s essential to take the proper steps to prevent it from spreading. Stay healthy and prevent extra visits to an eye doctor with these four tips. 

Do:

Wash your hands.

For such a simple procedure, washing your hands is a great way to prevent illness. This is especially true during the cold and flu season when germs can easily spread between people at work, school, and home. Some types of pink eye and colds are caused by the same virus, so good hygiene is crucial this time of year. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds to kill germs and bacteria.

Be careful about touching your face.

Keep your hands away from your mouth and eyes, especially if you’ve come into contact with a person who has pink eye. The virus can easily transfer from one eye to another, even when symptoms appear dormant. That means you could spread it to your other eye without even knowing. 

Don't:

Use someone else’s contact lenses.

An eye doctor prescribes contacts to suit your unique vision needs. As a result, someone else’s lenses probably won’t be effective in correcting your vision. Also, sharing them can transfer germs like conjunctivitis one person to another. 

Share eye cosmetics.

While mascara, shadow, and other types of eye makeup don’t go directly in your eyes, they can still spread pink eye. Never share makeup with friends and make sure you’re replacing your eye makeup according to manufacturer recommendations.  

When experiencing eye redness or itchiness, visit an eye doctor for a diagnosis. In Elizabethtown, KY, Wise Vision Care offers comprehensive eye care services that can help preserve ocular health including treatment for conjunctivitis from bacteria, allergens, smoke, and viruses. Call (270) 769-3708 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website to learn more about their services.