Treatment of viral conjunctivitis

Viral conjunctivitis is a highly contagious but self-limiting condition that usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks(CARPA), 2022Khan, 2020The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (RVEEH), 2022. For differentiation of types of conjunctivitis, see Assessment of conjunctivitis.

Symptomatic treatment is recommended for viral conjunctivitis; this includes applying cold compresses (a clean cool towel against closed eyes) several times a day and using lubricant eye dropsKhan, 2020The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (RVEEH), 2022.

Advise patients of hygiene measures to reduce the spread of infection(CARPA), 2022The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital (RVEEH), 2022:

  • Avoid touching or rubbing eyes.
  • Wash hands frequently.
  • Do not share linen and towels.
  • Wash pillowcases frequently.
  • Minimise contact with other people while symptomatic by staying away from work, school or childcare.

Do not use topical corticosteroids for viral conjunctivitis without advice from an ophthalmologist. There is no role for topical antibiotics such as chloramphenicol.

Note: Do not use topical chloramphenicol for viral conjunctivitis.

Ocular infection with herpes simplex virus (see Herpes simplex keratitis) and herpes zoster virus (see Herpes zoster ophthalmicus) can also cause conjunctivitis. Seek expert advice from an ophthalmologist.

If symptoms of viral conjunctivitis do not improve within 2 weeks, consider other causes. Prompt referral to an ophthalmologist is required for conjunctivitis that is associated with severe or worsening symptoms (eg significant pain, reduced vision or photophobia) to exclude more serious diagnoses such as keratitis.