Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) Fast Facts

Pinkeye's proper name is conjunctivitis. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the clear membrane that covers the white of the eye.

There are several types of pinkeye. They include infectious pinkeye, allergic pinkeye, neonatal pinkeye and irritant pinkeye.

Infectious pinkeye is caused by bacteria or a virus.

Allergic pinkeye is caused by allergies and is more prevalent in children. Ragweed is the number one allergen that causes this type of pinkeye.

Irritant pinkeye is caused by chemicals such as cigarette smoke, diesel fumes, soap, pollutants and chlorine.

All types of pinkeye are contagious and don't let anyone tell you differently. Pinkeye can spread from one child to another or from one eye to another. All it takes is one touch.

Pinkeye can be prevented by not touching the eye and by frequent washing of hands.