Conjunctivitis in babies is more common than many parents realise. It can be distressing to see your little one’s eyes looking red, sticky or irritated—especially if you’re unsure what caused it or how best to treat it. At Luxtons Pharmacy, we speak to parents daily who are dealing with these exact concerns.

One of the most important questions we hear is: “Is conjunctivitis in babies contagious?” The short answer is yes—depending on the type. In this blog, we’ll explain how it spreads, how to protect your family, and how our pharmacy team can support you with early treatment and advice.

What Is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin layer of tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It can cause:

• –> Redness or pink appearance in one or both eyes

• –> Sticky or watery discharge

• –> Crusting around the eyes, especially after sleep

• –> Swelling or puffiness around the eyes

• –> Irritation, itchiness, or discomfort

There are three main types of conjunctivitis in babies:

Viral – often starts in one eye and spreads to the other; highly contagious

Bacterial – usually causes thick, yellow or green discharge; also contagious

Allergic – caused by an allergen (like pollen or dust); not contagious

Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are the types parents need to be most aware of when it comes to spreading.

How Does Conjunctivitis Spread?

Conjunctivitis is easily transmitted through direct contact with infected eye secretions. It can spread via:

• –> Hands that have touched the infected eye

• –> Towels, bedding, and washcloths

• –> Toys or surfaces touched by the infected child

• –> Nursery settings where children play closely together

Babies tend to rub their eyes and then touch other objects (or people), which makes cross-contamination likely. Siblings and parents can catch it quickly if good hygiene isn’t followed.

Can My Baby Go to Nursery with Conjunctivitis?

Whether your baby can attend nursery depends on the severity and type of conjunctivitis. Most nurseries have clear policies on this.

In general, if your baby has bacterial or viral conjunctivitis with obvious discharge and red eyes, it’s best to keep them at home for at least 24–48 hours after starting treatment.

If it’s mild, and they’re otherwise well and treatment has started, some nurseries will allow them to return—always check with your setting.

Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious and usually doesn’t require staying at home.

Keeping your baby at home for the early phase of infection helps reduce the risk of spreading it to other children, staff members, or siblings.

Cleaning Routines to Prevent Spread

Good hygiene is the most effective way to stop conjunctivitis from moving through your household. We recommend:

• –> Washing your hands thoroughly before and after touching your baby’s face or eyes

• –> Gently cleaning your baby’s eyes with cooled boiled water and a clean cloth (one for each eye)

• –> Using a new towel and flannel for your baby each day

• –> Avoiding shared pillowcases, cuddly toys, or dummies

• –> Regularly disinfecting toys and surfaces

• –> Keeping hands away from the eyes as much as possible

For babies and toddlers, we know this can be easier said than done—but even a few basic steps can help reduce the risk of reinfection.

When to See a Pharmacist

Many mild cases of conjunctivitis can be managed safely with advice and treatment from your pharmacy team. At Luxtons Pharmacy, we offer a Conjunctivitis Service designed specifically for families, including free NHS treatment for children aged up to two years old.

You should seek pharmacy support if:

• –> Your baby’s eyes are red, sticky, or swollen

• –> There is discharge or crusting

• –> They seem unusually irritable or unwell

• –> You’re not sure whether it’s conjunctivitis or something else

Our trained pharmacists can assess your baby’s symptoms, recommend suitable treatment (including antibiotic eye drops if needed), and advise you on the best course of action. If we think a GP referral is necessary, we’ll point you in the right direction.

Treating the Whole Family

Conjunctivitis often doesn’t stop with the baby. Parents and siblings can also pick it up. If more than one family member is affected, we’re happy to treat everyone in one visit. We offer both NHS and private treatment options depending on age and symptoms, with no long waiting times.

By acting early and getting the right support, you can help stop the spread and reduce discomfort for your little one—and for the rest of your household.

Book a Consultation with Luxtons Pharmacy

If you suspect conjunctivitis in your baby, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the easier it is to manage and contain. Our pharmacy team is here to help with practical advice, effective treatment, and the reassurance every parent needs.

We offer:

• –> Free NHS treatment for children up to 2 years

• –> Same-day consultations

• –> Support for parents and siblings

• –> Friendly, expert care close to home

Contact Luxtons Pharmacy today or book a consultation to access our Conjunctivitis Service and keep your family protected.

This blog was written on behalf of Luxtons Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.