Bacterial Pink Eye

Watery, itchy or scratchy eye(s), the white part of the eye(s) turning pink or red, and green/yellow eye drainage that may be crusty, often worse upon waking.
The virus can spread before the person develops a rash. It is spread by coming in contact with infected nose and throat secretions as well as contaminated shared items. This is a common viral infection in late winter/early spring.
  • Practice proper hand hygiene
  • Avoid touching the eyes
  • Proper disposal of contaminated items
    • Exclusion from school is required if the pink eye is deemed to be bacterial until 24 hours of antibiotics has been completed.
    Concern for pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, any one with sickle cell disease, or certain blood disorders. Groups of concern should contact a health care provider if they believe they have been exposed. This is a common viral infection in late winter/early spring.

    Communication Notice (recommended to be distributed if two or more cases are present)

    We have been advised of suspected case(s) of bacterial pink eye in our classroom/school. While pink eye is a nuisance, it is a common childhood condition. Exclusion from school is required if the pink eye is deemed to be bacterial until 24 hours of antibiotics has been completed.

    Parent/guardians are encouraged to watch their child for signs of a bacterial pink eye infection which include watery, itchy or scratchy eye(s), the white part of the eye(s) being pink or red, and green/yellow drainage, often worse upon waking.

    If you suspect your child may have a bacterial pink eye infection, please contact a health care provider for treatment and/or 811 for advice. To find out more, check out this fact sheet on bacterial pink eye at: https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/pinkeye