"How Does Pink Eye Spread to Others?"

Conjunctivitis (Red Eye Disease)

Conjunctivitis, also known as red eye disease, is a contagious eye condition with various transmission routes, including direct contact, droplet spread, contaminated object transmission, and mother-to-child transmission. Details are as follows:

1. Direct Contact Transmission

When a person with conjunctivitis touches their infected eye with their hands and then touches someone else's eye or shared objects, the pathogens can be transmitted. It is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching eyes with hands, and not share eye care products such as towels and eyedrop bottles.

2. Droplet Spread

When a patient coughs, sneezes, or speaks, droplets containing pathogens may escape from their mouth and nose. If others come into contact with these droplets and then touch their eyes, infection may occur. Avoid close contact with patients, especially during coughing or sneezing, and maintain social distancing.

3. Contaminated Object Transmission

Conjunctivitis pathogens can exist in the environment, such as on glasses, towels, pillows, eyedrop bottles, etc. If others touch these contaminated objects and then their eyes, infection may occur. Regularly clean and disinfect objects that may come into contact with the eyes, such as glasses and towels, and avoid using items used by infected individuals.

4. Mother-to-Child Transmission

For newborns, conjunctivitis can be transmitted through the mother's birth canal. If the mother has conjunctivitis, the baby may come into contact with pathogens during delivery, leading to infection. Pregnant women should undergo eye exams before delivery, and if symptoms of conjunctivitis are present, prompt treatment is essential to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.

5. Infection Factors

External microorganisms, dust, and physicochemical toxins can irritate the conjunctiva, causing inflammation. Avoid prolonged exposure to polluted environments and wear protective eyewear. To prevent the spread of conjunctivitis, maintain good personal hygiene, avoid close contact with patients, regularly clean and disinfect items that may come into contact with the eyes, and strengthen the immune system.