Conjunctivitis in children: symptoms and treatment
6 min read · Updated 2026-09-20
A red, watery or sticky eye is common in children. It may be caused by a contagious infection, an allergy or irritation. As similar symptoms can have other causes, recognising when an examination is needed matters.
How to recognise conjunctivitis
The conjunctiva covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. When inflamed, the eye looks red and irritated. Depending on the cause, symptoms may begin in one eye and later affect the other.
- Redness of the white of the eye and swollen eyelids.
- Increased tearing or watery discharge.
- Yellowish discharge and eyelashes stuck together in the morning.
- Itching, burning or a gritty sensation.
- Frequent rubbing, blinking or sensitivity to light.
Viral, bacterial, allergic or irritated?
Viral conjunctivitis often occurs with a cold and tends to cause watery discharge. Bacterial infections may produce thicker discharge. Intense itching in both eyes together with sneezing and a runny nose points more towards allergy. Dust, smoke, dry air, a foreign body or a narrowed tear duct can also make eyes red and watery.
The cause cannot always be identified from one symptom. Antibiotic eye drops only help with certain bacterial infections and should not be used without a medical diagnosis.
What parents can do at home
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after touching the eyes.
- Gently wipe discharge with a clean damp compress, using a fresh one for each eye.
- Do not share towels, flannels, pillows or eye drops.
- Discourage your child from rubbing the eyes.
- Do not put chamomile or other home remedies into the eye, as they may irritate it or trigger allergy.
- Do not wear contact lenses until the eye has fully recovered.
When should my child see an eye doctor?
A mildly red eye without pain can initially be observed. Arrange an examination if symptoms are marked, are getting worse, do not improve within a few days or the cause remains unclear.
- Immediately for severe pain, reduced vision or marked light sensitivity.
- Immediately after an injury, chemical exposure or possible foreign body.
- Promptly for severe swelling, fever or a child who is generally unwell.
- Always seek prompt medical advice for newborns and young infants.
- Do not wait if a contact-lens wearer has a red or painful eye.
Is conjunctivitis contagious?
Viral and bacterial forms can spread through tears and eye discharge. Careful hand hygiene and separate towels reduce the risk. Allergic conjunctivitis and irritation caused by environmental factors are not contagious.
Whether and for how long a child should stay away from nursery or school depends on the cause, symptoms and the setting's policy. If in doubt, discuss it with the clinician caring for your child.
Examination and treatment
The eye doctor examines the eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea and pupil response and checks whether vision is affected. Treatment follows the cause, such as lubricating drops for irritation, anti-allergy treatment or targeted medication for an infection that requires it.
Frequently asked questions
How long does conjunctivitis last in children?
It depends on the cause. Mild viral or irritated eyes often improve within a few days, while some infections last longer. Seek an examination if there is no improvement, symptoms worsen or warning signs appear.
Can my child attend nursery or school with conjunctivitis?
Infectious forms can spread to others. Whether your child should stay home depends on the diagnosis, symptoms and the setting's rules. Seek medical advice if the cause is uncertain.
Does my child need antibiotic eye drops?
Not every case is bacterial, and antibiotics do not help viral or allergic conjunctivitis. Use antibiotic drops only after an examination and prescription.