Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is one of the most common reasons people suddenly have to miss work or pull their children out of school. The redness, irritation, and discharge can be uncomfortable, but just as important is knowing when it’s safe to be around other people again. Because some forms of pink eye are highly contagious while others are not, understanding the type you have, and how long symptoms last, can help you decide when it’s appropriate to return to your normal routine.
For same-day pink eye treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan the best treatment. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Contagious Pink Eye: When You’ll Need To Stay Home
Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are the 2 types most likely to spread to other people. Viral pink eye often develops alongside a cold or respiratory virus, and it can be contagious for several days after symptoms begin. Bacterial pink eye typically causes thicker discharge and can spread through direct contact with infected hands, surfaces, or eye secretions. If your urgent care provider diagnoses you with viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, staying home until symptoms improve is important. In most cases, people can return to work or school once the redness lessens and discharge is no longer coming from the eye.
How Long You’re Contagious With Viral Pink Eye
Viral conjunctivitis usually remains contagious as long as your eyes are red and watery. For many people, this lasts 3 to 5 days, although symptoms can linger longer in some cases. Even when irritation improves, you’re still contagious if your eyes continue to tear or if discharge reappears throughout the day. Because viral pink eye doesn’t respond to antibiotics, managing symptoms and practicing strict hygiene (like washing hands and avoiding eye touching) are the best ways to prevent spreading it. Most patients can safely return to work or school once the constant tearing resolves and their eyes look noticeably less inflamed.
Returning After Bacterial Pink Eye
Bacterial conjunctivitis behaves differently because it often begins with thicker yellow or green discharge and eyelids that stick together in the morning. The good news is that bacterial pink eye typically responds quickly to antibiotic drops or ointment. Most people are no longer contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotics, which means you can often return to work or school the next day as long as discharge has significantly decreased. If your eye remains crusted, irritated, or swollen after a full day of treatment, it’s best to wait a little longer before being around others.
Noncontagious Pink Eye and When You Can Resume Normal Activities
Not all pink eye is contagious. Allergic conjunctivitis, caused by pollen, dust, or other allergens, does not spread from person to person. Irritant conjunctivitis, triggered by smoke, chlorine, or chemical exposure, is also noninfectious. If your urgent care provider confirms your pink eye is allergic or irritant-related, you can return to work or school immediately as long as your symptoms are manageable. People often choose to stay home for comfort, but there is no risk of passing it to others. Treatment usually focuses on reducing inflammation, avoiding triggers, and keeping the eyes moisturized.
Get Same-Day Pink Eye Treatment in Denver, CO at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer
Knowing when it’s safe to return to work or school depends on the type of pink eye you have and how quickly your symptoms improve. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis require more caution, while allergic and irritant forms allow you to resume activities right away. If you’re unsure what type you’re dealing with or need treatment to help your symptoms improve faster, come visit AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. We can provide clarity, relief, and a clear timeline for safely returning to your routine. Don’t ignore your symptoms! Come visit us for a full medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan. We accept most insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about pink eye treatment, please contact our office directly at (303) 733-4000.
