The CMGs offer information on the diagnosis and management of a range of conditions that present with varying frequency in primary and first contact care.
Viral (non-herpetic) conjunctivitis is an infection that causes redness, discomfort and watery discharge in one or both eyes. In most cases, it is mild and clears up without treatment. The condition is however highly infectious, requiring measures such as good hand hygiene and the avoidance of towel sharing to prevent its spread. This Clinical Management Guideline outlines the aetiology, signs and symptoms and evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and treating viral conjunctivitis. It provides recommendations for non-pharmacological management and pharmacological treatment for symptomatic relief.
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What is viral conjunctivitis?
Viral conjunctivitis is an infection of the eye in which one or both eyes become red and uncomfortable. The condition is not normally serious and in most cases clears up without treatment. It is highly infectious and care needs to be taken to prevent others from becoming infected, for example by not sharing towels.
How is viral conjunctivitis managed?
In terms of treatment, antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and there is no effective anti-viral drug. Usual care involves the control of symptoms using cool compresses applied to the closed eyes, coupled with the use of lubricating eye drops and ointment. In a small number of cases viral conjunctivitis can lead to the development of small opaque areas within the cornea (the clear window at the front of the eye), which can cause blurred vision. In such cases, and where there is severe inflammation, emergency referral to an ophthalmologist should be arranged.
Conjunctivitis is seen, rarely, in people with COVID-19 disease.