Why pink eye spreads so quickly and what you can do to prevent it

The monsoon season brings relief from the summer heat, but it also creates favourable conditions for the spread of several infections, including viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye”.

According to Dr Vineetha Sikile, Specialist - Ophthalmology, KIMS Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, the combination of high humidity, rainy weather, crowded public spaces and increased human interaction contributes to a rise in eye infections during this period.

"This time period provides favourable circumstances for the transmission of viral conjunctivitis, which is popularly referred to as ‘pink eye’. The high levels of humidity, rainy weather, crowded public places, and human interaction lead to a significant number of cases of eye infections at that time," says Dr Sikile.

Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in homes, schools, workplaces and other community settings. Unlike some infections that require prolonged exposure, pink eye can spread through contact with infected eye secretions or contaminated objects.

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How does viral conjunctivitis spread?

One of the most common misconceptions about pink eye is that simply looking into the eyes of an infected person can spread the infection. Dr Sikile explains that this is not true.

"The misconception is about just gazing into the eyes of someone with infection being responsible for the spread of this disease. This is not true."

Instead, viral conjunctivitis spreads mainly through contaminated hands and surfaces.

"This infection can be transmitted through contact with dirty hands, towels, handkerchiefs, pillow cases, make-up, and any other commonly used things like mobiles and door handles. Hand washing and not sharing personal things are the best ways to prevent it," she adds.

This is why outbreaks are common in places where people frequently share spaces and objects, including classrooms, offices and households.

Common symptoms of viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis often begins in one eye and may spread to the other eye after a few days.

"The disease starts affecting one eye and might affect the other after several days. It causes redness, tearing, irritation, a burning feeling, slight inflammation of the eyelids, and photophobia," says Dr Sikile.

Some people may also experience eye discharge. Although viral conjunctivitis usually resolves on its own within one to two weeks, it can cause considerable discomfort and remains highly infectious during the active phase.

"Even though viral conjunctivitis will go away by itself after one-two weeks, it is painful and highly contagious if proper hygiene is not maintained," she explains.

Simple steps to prevent pink eye during monsoon

Maintaining good hygiene is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of viral conjunctivitis.

Dr Sikile recommends the following preventive measures:

These measures are especially important during monsoon, when moisture and close contact can increase the chances of transmission.

When should you see an ophthalmologist?

While most cases of viral conjunctivitis improve without specific treatment, certain symptoms require medical attention.

Dr Sikile advises people to consult an eye specialist if they experience:

Early evaluation can help identify the exact cause of eye symptoms and prevent complications.

Why self-medication with eye drops can be risky

Many people use over-the-counter eye drops when they develop redness or irritation, but this can sometimes delay recovery or worsen certain eye conditions.

"It is crucial not to self-medicate using antibiotic or steroid eye drops because the wrong diagnosis can hinder the healing process or worsen some eye problems," says Dr Sikile.

A proper diagnosis, good hygiene practices and timely consultation with an ophthalmologist can help control the spread of viral conjunctivitis and protect eye health during the monsoon season.

The takeaway

Viral conjunctivitis is common during the rainy season because humid conditions, crowded environments and frequent contact create opportunities for infection to spread.

While pink eye is usually self-limiting, maintaining hygiene, avoiding shared personal items and seeking medical advice when warning signs appear can help reduce transmission and protect vision.