1. Prevent Pink Eye With Basic Hygiene
Viral conjunctivitis, the leading cause of pink eye in children, is extremely contagious. It's been known to spread through entire classrooms, leaving scores of itchy, red-eyed children and adults in its wake. The best way to prevent an outbreak of pink eye is to practice good hygiene, especially when there's a known case of pink eye in the midst. Start by keeping everybody's hands clean. Wash them frequently with soap and warm water. If that's not a possibility, keep hand sanitizer in an easily accessible place.
Clean communal surfaces and items, such as counters, tables and toys, with a bleach-and-water solution to try to prevent the spread of pink eye. Of course, continually encourage children to cover their mouths when they cough and sneeze and to use tissues to wipe runny noses. It may feel like a losing battle, but just one covered sneeze can prevent a pink-eye epidemic.
2. Avoid Sharing Personal Items
Telling children not to share may seem contradictory to their socialization, but in some cases, it's a necessary lesson. Teach your child not to share towels, washcloths and linens with other people, both at home and at school. Older children (and adults) shouldn't share cosmetics, especially mascara, eyeliner and contact-lens solution. These items should actually be replaced to prevent reinfection once your pink eye has subsided. Unfortunately, this also is true of your contact lenses. Even if it's not the scheduled time to dispose of and replace them, discard them. You won't be wearing them while you have pink eye anyway.
3. Avoid Causes of Non-Infectious Pink Eye
Not all cases of pink eye are caused by viruses and bacteria. In fact, allergic conjunctivitis is a common non-infectious cause of the disease. It's not contagious, as your red, swollen, teary eyes are a reaction to an allergy. Though it's not possible to avoid the causes of your allergies completely, there are ways to prevent the reaction.
Take over the counter allergy medicine (OTC) or carry eye drops with you during allergy season to prevent reactions to mold and pollen. You can also prevent allergic conjunctivitis by avoiding enclosed spaces in which other people will be smoking. Stay close to a door or window at parties and restaurants as a way to vent the smoke. Swimmers can invest in a pair of good goggles to prevent a reaction to the chlorine. Also, if you know your friend's dog or cat will make your eyes swell and itch, it's best to steer clear.
