Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Clinical Manifestations
An acute condition characterized by redness of the eye(s) that involves tearing, irritation, and hyperemia that may be followed by swelling of the lids, photophobia, and a mucopurulent discharge. There are several different causes, not all of which are communicable. The cause may be a bacterium, virus, foreign body, or an allergy. It is transmitted through contact with discharge from the eye or upper respiratory tract of the infected person, or through contact with contaminated articles.
Incubation Period
Bacterial: 24-72 hours
Viral: Usually 12 hours – 3 days
Period of Communicability
During the course of active infection, and up to 14 days after onset, depending upon the cause of infection.
Applicable Laws For Indiana Schools
A local health officer or the commissioner, upon learning or being notified of communicable diseases that are not covered by any specific control measures in this section, shall place such restrictions upon the movements of cases or carriers and their contacts as may be reasonably necessary to prevent the spread of disease. Specific control measures for the selected diseases or conditions are listed in sections 52 through 112 of this rule. For control measures for diseases or conditions not listed insofar as applicable, the procedures prescribed in the Control of Communicable Diseases Manual, 17th Edition, 2000, a publication of the American Public Health Association, shall be followed to the extent that they are not in conflict with the laws of Indiana or this rule. (410 IAC 1-2.3-51).
- Children should not attend school during acute stages of illness.
School Nursing Implications
- Use of hot or cold moist packs may relieve discomfort
- Precautions should be followed when handling drainage/secretions.
- Refer for medical evaluation
- Call caregiver of child
- Exclusion of child with mucopurulent drainage should be as per medical order.
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Red Book 2000 states, "infected children should be allowed to remain in school once any indicated therapy is implemented."
Related Sites/Additional Information
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/hip/abc/facts28.htm
ISDH Conjunctivitis Quick Facts
http://www.nih.gov/health/informationIndex/HealthIndex/Pubincov.htm
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