Use prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointment if you have bacterial conjunctivitis
Contact a clinician promptly if you suspect bacterial infection, have worsening symptoms, or symptoms last more than 7–10 days
For viral conjunctivitis, use supportive care: artificial tears and cool compresses
Avoid contact lenses until fully symptom-free for at least 24–48 hours, and replace lenses and lens case if advised
Discard or replace eye makeup and contact lens supplies
Wash hands often with soap and water
Do not touch or rub your eyes
Use clean towels and washcloths; avoid sharing them
Clean any eye discharge with sterile saline or clean water using separate clean cloths/pads
Avoid eye drops labeled “get the red out”
Do not use leftover or someone else’s eye drops
If you wear glasses, switch to glasses during symptoms
Seek urgent care if you have severe eye pain, light sensitivity, decreased vision, trouble moving the eye, or a severe headache
Seek urgent care if symptoms occur after eye injury or with a known eye condition (e.g., corneal disease, immunosuppression)
If you are pregnant, have newborn exposure, or have recurrent episodes, contact a clinician for guidance