Kids May Have to Stay Home
Another reason to speak to a medical professional with regards to pinkeye cases is the fact that they will have a better understanding of whether or not you and/or child must stay at home. Usually the rule of thumb for children with pinkeye is that children should not return to school until being on antibiotics for at least a full 24 hours or having no visible symptoms. According to one source, every year children miss about three million days of school due to pinkeye.
Of course, it is important to be knowledgeable about pinkeye. However, it is also important to be aware of ways that you can limit the spread of this very contagious condition. The most important thing to keep in mind is that making sure to wash your hands frequently and efficiently, with soap and warm water. It can also be helpful to wash personal items in hot water such as face cloths and pillowcases. Lastly, it is advised that you do not rub your eyes and this can lead to the spread of pinkeye from one eye to the other or to someone else if you do not properly wash your hands after the fact.