PINK EYE PANDA - Do you Have "Pink Eye"

Pink eye — also called conjunctivitis — is inflammation of the thin, clear covering of the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids (conjunctiva) and is a highly contagious infection.  See your eye doctor immediately!

Conjunctivitis can have several causes:

• Viral conjunctivitis symptoms include watery, itchy eyes or sensitivity to light. One or both eyes can be affected. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can be spread by coughing and sneezing.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis symptoms include a sticky, yellow or greenish-yellow eye discharge in the corner of the eye. In some cases, this discharge can be severe enough to cause the eyelids to be stuck together when you wake up. One or both eyes can be affected. Bacterial conjunctivitis is contagious, usually by direct contact with infected hands or items that have touched the eye.

• Allergic conjunctivitis symptoms include watery, burning, itchy eyes and are often accompanied by stuffiness and a runny nose, and sensitivity to light. Allergic conjunctivitis affects both eyes, but this type of pink eye is not contagious.

Here are precautions you can take to significantly reduce your risk of getting pink eye:

1. Wash your hands frequently, especially when spending time at school or in other public places.
2. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
3. Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes.