Jul 31, 2023

Busting myths on conjunctivitis; here are the actual facts

ET Online

You can get pink eye by staring at an infected person

Fact: Pink eye/eye flu/conjunctivitis does not spread by looking into an infected person's eyes, but through direct contact with the discharge from an infected person's eyes.

Image Source: Getty Images

Conjunctivitis is a kids' condition

Fact: No. Conjunctivitis can affect kids and adults alike.

Image Source: Getty Images

You only get eye flu by rubbing your eyes

Fact: While rubbing your eyes can cause conjunctivitis, just touching it with hands or any other object with the bacteria will also result in it.

Image Source: Getty Images

All conjunctivitis are contagious

Fact: Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. Only viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are highly contagious.

Image Source: Getty Images

Red eye means you have conjunctivitis

Fact: If your eyes are red, it could mean a lot of things, including conjunctivitis. It can be an injury, other infections or even glaucoma.

Image Source: Getty Images

You have to throw away your bedding after recovery

Fact: You don't need to throw them away but you must wash your clothes and bedding frequently. Throw away your makeup and contact lenses only.

Image Source: Getty Images

You can't get conjunctivitis twice

Fact: Regardless of the type of pink eye, having it once does not make you immune. You need to follow all hygiene practices.

Image Source: Getty Images

There is no treatment for eye flu

Fact: Conjunctivitis often goes away on its own but you can relieve symptoms with medication.

Image Source: Getty Images

Thanks For Reading!

Next: Don'ts of PCOD: Things you should not do with polycystic ovarian syndrome

Find out More