Keep an eye out for conjunctivitis

Several children in my daughter’s class have recently been diagnosed with pinkeye. I certainly want to make sure that she isn’t next! Can you tell me more about the disease, how it is spread, and ways to make sure my children aren’t infected?

Pinkeye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and part of the eyeball. This membrane, known as the conjunctiva, is usually clear. However, if irritation or infection occurs, it can become red and swollen.

The cause of pinkeye is commonly a viral or bacterial infection, an allergic reaction or — in newborns — an incompletely opened tear duct. Most cases of conjunctivitis are caused by viral infections. However, both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are very contagious, which is why early diagnosis and treatment is the best way to limit its spread.

The most common symptoms of pinkeye include redness in one or both eyes, itchiness in one or both eyes, a gritty feeling in one or both eyes, and tearing and-or discharge of fluid in one or both eyes that forms a crust during the night. A distinguishing characteristic between viral pinkeye and bacterial conjunctivitis is the color of the discharge; viral pinkeye tends to have a clear discharge, while bacterial pinkeye is often opaque, with a greenish-yellow hue.

In the case of conjunctivitis caused by a virus, there is no simple “cure” — the infection simply must run its course while the body fights it off. A case of viral conjunctivitis typically goes away in seven to 10 days, and over-the-counter remedies, such as warm or cold compresses, can help alleviate some of the symptoms in the meantime. Children can usually return to day care or school in three to five days.

Unlike pinkeye due to a viral infection, pinkeye that is caused by bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, and the child can return to school 24 hours after an antibiotic has been started if symptoms have improved.

The best way to avoid the discomfort of pinkeye is to prevent the infection from occurring at all. Practicing good hygiene is the best way to control its spread; poor hand-washing is the main cause of the spread of pinkeye. Sharing an object, such as a washcloth or towel, with a child who has pinkeye can also spread the infection.

There’s no need to panic; pinkeye is a minor eye infection, but left untreated it could develop into a more serious condition. A visit to the pediatrician if you are concerned that your child has pinkeye can ensure that conjunctivitis doesn’t have you seeing red. Or pink.

Relevant Directory Listings

See More

FlexSchool

<p>Our mission is to provide an engaging learning experience in a supportive environment where students are free to explore their passions, embrace their challenges and find a community of teachers and friends who understand and accept them as they are.</p> <p>Academics:</p> <p>To meet the unique needs of gifted and 2e learners – students who may have co-occurring learning challenges along with their gifts – we provide a gifted-level curriculum with built-in scaffolding, developed by credentialed experts in both gifted education and special education, as well as subject-area experts. Small, discussion-based classes ensure our students can engage in stimulating conversation with intellectual peers while receiving individualized attention and support.</p> <p>Talent Development and Experiential Learning:</p> <p>Central to our program is our strengths-based, interest-based approach to learning. All FlexSchool students pursue personal passion projects and choose from a diverse menu of enrichment activities and electives designed to support exploration and talent development. Our signature FlexFriday experiential learning program provides essential connections between classroom learning and the real world.</p> <p>Executive Functioning and Learning Support:</p> <p>All FlexSchool students have access to an extensive range of accommodations, including breaks as needed, daily executive functioning support, flexible seating, extended time, assistive technology and more. Learning Specialist support is available on every FlexSchool campus.</p> <p>Social-Emotional Learning and School Counseling:</p> <p>Our caring team of certified school counselors, under the guidance of a consulting psychologist, provide robust social-emotional learning and social pragmatics programming. Students are welcome to visit the school counselor at any time – no appointment necessary. FlexSchool counselors also maintain a collaborative relationship with parents and outside providers.</p> <p>Rolling admissions:</p> <p>We understand that student needs don’t always neatly align with the academic calendar, so FlexSchool admits students on a rolling basis. To learn more, join FlexSchool founder Jacqui Byrne live via Zoom for a Virtual Open House. To receive a call from our admissions team, inquire online, email us at [email protected] or call 908-279-0787.</p>

Appletree ABA

<p>Appletree ABA is committed to providing effective high-quality and compassionate ABA therapy services to individuals with Autism and their families. We do this by utilizing evidence-based practices, collaboration with families and professionals, and an individualized approach tailored to promote meaningful change. Home-Based Services: Home programs are focused on increasing the skills necessary to participate in the home and community. School-Based Services: School-Based Services Appletree ABA offers school-district consultation and training. Center-Based Services: Coming soon!</p>

Extended Home Care

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">Extended Home Care is specially licensed to serve cognitively and neurologically impaired individuals across the age spectrum in all five boroughs. We offer in-home support to meet your family member's health, developmental and safety needs by providing Skilled Nursing, Home Health Aides, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Social Work.</span></p>