Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, commonly called "pink eye" or "apollo" in parts of Nigeria, is inflammation of the conjunctiva — the thin, clear membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelid. It causes redness, irritation, and discharge, and is one of the most common eye complaints seen in clinics. Conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or irritants; viral and bacterial forms are highly contagious and can spread quickly in schools, offices, and households, but most cases are mild and resolve without lasting harm to vision.

• Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid • Increased tearing • Thick yellow, green, or watery discharge from the eye • Eyes that feel gritty, itchy, or burning • Crusting of the eyelids or lashes, especially after sleep • Swelling of the eyelids • Mild sensitivity to light • Symptoms often start in one eye and spread to the other

Conjunctivitis has several possible causes: • Viral infection (most common overall) — often accompanying a cold, highly contagious • Bacterial infection — often produces thicker, yellow-green discharge • Allergens (pollen, dust, animal dander) — allergic conjunctivitis, usually with itching in both eyes • Irritants — smoke, chlorine, dust, or chemical fumes • Newborns can develop conjunctivitis from exposure during birth if the mother has certain untreated infections

• Close contact with an infected person, especially in schools and crowded households • Poor hand hygiene and touching or rubbing the eyes • Sharing personal items such as towels, pillows, or eye makeup • Contact lens use, particularly with poor lens hygiene • Seasonal allergies or known allergic conditions • Exposure to smoke, dust, or chemical irritants • Newborns whose mothers have untreated sexually transmitted infections

Conjunctivitis is usually mild, but rare complications include: • Spread of bacterial infection to surrounding tissues • Corneal involvement (keratoconjunctivitis), which can affect vision if untreated • Chronic or recurrent conjunctivitis with ongoing irritant or allergen exposure • In newborns, more serious eye infections requiring urgent treatment

• Wash hands frequently, especially before touching the eyes • Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes • Do not share towels, pillowcases, or personal eye-care items • Clean and replace contact lenses as directed, and avoid sleeping in lenses • Avoid known allergens and irritants where possible • Keep affected children out of school until discharge clears, per clinic guidance, to reduce spread • Pregnant women should be screened and treated for relevant infections to prevent transmission to newborns