Conjunctivitis (viral, non-herpetic)

Viral (non-herpetic) conjunctivitis is an infection that causes redness, discomfort and watery discharge in one or both eyes. In most cases, it is mild and clears up without treatment. The condition is however highly infectious, requiring measures such as good hand hygiene and the avoidance of towel sharing to prevent its spread. This Clinical Management Guideline outlines the aetiology, signs and symptoms and evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and treating viral conjunctivitis. It provides recommendations for non-pharmacological management and pharmacological treatment for symptomatic relief.

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What is viral conjunctivitis?

Viral conjunctivitis is eye infection that can make one or both eyes become red and uncomfortable. It is most commonly caused by an adenovirus. The condition is usually not serious and gets better on its own without treatment. It is very easy to spread to other people, so you should take care not to pass it on, for example by not sharing towels.  

How is viral conjunctivitis managed?

In terms of treatment, antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and there is no effective anti-viral drug for viral conjunctivitis. Usual care involves the control of symptoms using cool compresses applied to the closed eyes, coupled with the use of lubricating eye drops and ointment.  

Patients should be advised not to wear contact lenses during the acute phase of the infection.

In a few cases viral conjunctivitis can lead to the development of small opaque areas within the cornea (the clear window at the front of the eye), which can cause blurred vision. In such cases, and where there is severe inflammation, the optometrist may treat with steroid eye drops.

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Last updated

Conjunctivitis (viral, non-herpetic) - 2 November 2026
The aetiology section has been amended to include specific adenoviral serotypes commonly involved and a description of the possible transmission routes for adenovirus related ocular infections. The symptoms section has been amended to set out the typical duration of symptoms and a description of the mechanism by which blurred vision can occur in adenoviral conjunctivitis. The differential diagnosis now includes examples of the acute red eye conditions that should be considered for exclusion during assessment. The non-pharmacological management section has been amended to identify cases that should be reviewed to monitor for complications. Under the management category section, a new recommendation has been included for severe cases associated with pseudomembrane formation.

Version 16
Date of search 17.08.26
Date of revision 24.08.26
Date of publication 02.11.26
Date for review 16.08.28
© The College of Optometrists