conjunctivitis (pink eye)
by catherine alderstein·
exclusion period
exclude until the discharge from the eyes has stopped, unless a doctor has diagnosed non-infectious conjunctivitis
symptoms
- •red or pink eyes
- •watery or sticky discharge from one or both eyes
- •eyes may be crusted shut in the morning
- •itching or grittiness
- •swollen eyelids
when can your child return to childcare?
the child can return when there is no more discharge from the eyes. if a doctor confirms it is allergic (non-infectious) conjunctivitis, the child does not need to be excluded at all.
do siblings or contacts need to stay home?
contacts are not excluded
treatment notes for parents
bacterial conjunctivitis may need antibiotic eye drops from your GP. viral conjunctivitis will clear on its own in 1–2 weeks. clean discharge from eyes with damp cotton wool, wiping from the inner corner outward. wash hands frequently.
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.