Dear Parent or Guardian:

A person in our child care center has conjunctivitis (pink eye). Conjunctivitis is an irritation of the eye that causes the "white" of the eye to become red and irritated. The eyes may appear watery and white or yellow discharge may be noticeable. This often causes the eyelashes to be "sticky" especially when the child first wakes up. Conjunctivitis is very common among young children and is usually due to a viral or bacterial infection. It often follows symptoms of a cold or ear infection. In some cases it is due to an allergy or other irritation of the eye.

Conjunctivitis that is due to a viral or bacterial infection is spread by contact with the eye drainage. Avoid touching an affected eye. Avoid sharing towels, bedlinens or clothing with the infected child. Hands should be washed carefully and often to avoid spreading the infection to others in your household.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, please consult your health care provider. While pink eye is generally a mild, non-dangerous condition, your doctor should rule out other problems. S/he will determine if medication is needed. Children with bacterial conjunctivitis should be kept home until they have received prescribed medication for at least 24 hours. If your child’s eyes are painful or irritated and s/he is unable to participate in the daily activities in the child care center, we ask that you care for him at home until s/he feels well enough to fully participate.

Sincerely,