Red, irritated eyes are often associated with allergies or bacterial infections, but many people are surprised to experience pink eye during the flu. When flu symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue are already making you feel miserable, eye discomfort can add another layer of concern. Understanding the connection between the flu and conjunctivitis can help you manage symptoms effectively and know when medical care is necessary.
For same-day conjunctivitis treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our medical team specializes in providing immediate care to patients of all ages, seven days a week. Just walk-in today!
Any Link Between Flu and Conjunctivitis?
Yes, there is a clear link between respiratory viruses and eye infections. Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, occurs when the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye becomes inflamed. Viral infections are one of the most common causes, and the same viruses that trigger flu-like illnesses can sometimes affect the eyes. Because the eyes, nose, and throat are closely connected, viruses can spread easily through touching the face, coughing, or rubbing irritated eyes.
Can the Flu Cause Conjunctivitis?
The flu itself can contribute to conjunctivitis, particularly viral conjunctivitis. While not everyone with the flu develops pink eye, some strains can cause eye redness, watering, itching, or a gritty sensation. This is more likely when the immune system is already weakened by illness. Flu-related conjunctivitis usually affects one eye first and may spread to the other. Unlike bacterial pink eye, it often produces watery discharge rather than thick pus and tends to resolve as the flu improves.
Treatment for Flu and Conjunctivitis
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting recovery. For flu symptoms, rest, hydration, and fever management are essential. Antiviral medications may be prescribed in certain cases if started early. For conjunctivitis, cool compresses can reduce redness and swelling, while artificial tears help soothe dryness and irritation. It is important to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen symptoms or spread infection. Antibiotic eye drops are not effective for viral conjunctivitis and are only used if a bacterial infection is suspected.
Prevention Tips
Preventing flu-related conjunctivitis starts with good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Do not share towels, pillows, or eye makeup while sick. Staying up to date with flu vaccination can also reduce the risk of severe flu and related complications. If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses until eye symptoms fully resolve. You should consider visiting urgent care if pink eye symptoms are severe, painful, affect vision, or do not improve within a few days, especially when combined with flu symptoms like high fever or shortness of breath.
Get Walk-In Flu & Pink Eye Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen
Urgent care centers can quickly assess whether your conjunctivitis is viral or bacterial and provide appropriate treatment. Prompt care helps protect your eyes, prevents complications, and supports a faster recovery from both the flu and conjunctivitis. If you or a loved one has developed a pink eye, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aberdeen. Our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and prescribe the necessary treatment. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis– meaning no appointment is necessary to be seen by a certified provider. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact us directly at (732) 583-5100.
