Not every red eye is an infection—and not all “pink eye” is contagious
If your child has come home this summer with red, itchy eyes, you’re not alone. Pediatricians across the country are seeing a spike in what many assume is classic pink eye. But here’s the twist: many of these cases aren’t caused by the typical virus or bacteria.
From pool chemicals to allergy flare-ups, summer eye infections in kids can look a lot like pink eye—but the treatment (and what to do next) can vary wildly.
Here’s how to tell what’s really going on behind those watery eyes—and when it’s time to call the pediatrician.
A Surge in ‘Pink Eye’—But It’s Not What It Seems
This summer, urgent care centers and pediatric practices have reported an increase in children with eye redness, swelling, and discharge—classic pink eye symptoms. But doctors say a surprising number of these cases aren’t the infectious kind that spreads like wildfire through classrooms.
Instead, many are being traced to:
- Seasonal allergies (especially grass and pollen)
- Chlorinated pools
- Dust or sand exposure during outdoor play
- Dry eyes from extended screen time or A/C exposure
While viral conjunctivitis is still around, pediatricians are cautioning parents not to jump to conclusions—or demand antibiotics—before ruling out other, less alarming causes.
What’s Actually Causing These Red, Itchy Eyes?
The term “pink eye” typically refers to conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the membrane that covers the white part of the eye. But not all conjunctivitis is contagious, and not all red eyes are conjunctivitis.
Here are some common culprits this time of year:
- Allergic conjunctivitis: Triggered by pollen, dust, or pet dander. Usually affects both eyes and comes with itching and clear, watery discharge.
- Chemical irritation: From pool chlorine, sunscreen runoff, or smoke. Often causes burning and redness, but not crusty discharge.
- Dry eye or eye strain: Caused by screens or dry environments. Leads to redness, blinking, and mild discomfort.
- Viral pink eye: Often starts in one eye, then spreads. May come with cold symptoms and watery discharge. Very contagious.
- Bacterial pink eye: More common in younger kids, this causes thick, yellowish discharge and often affects one eye more than the other.
Understanding what’s behind your child’s symptoms can help you avoid unnecessary treatments—and protect others if the cause is contagious.
How to Tell the Difference at Home
You don’t need a microscope to spot some key clues:
| Symptom | Allergies | Viral Pink Eye | Bacterial Pink Eye | Irritant |
| Discharge | Clear & watery | Watery or sticky | Thick & yellow/green | Minimal |
| Eye affected | Both eyes | Often starts in one | Often one, then both | One or both |
| Itching | Yes | Sometimes | Rare | Burning/stinging |
| Other symptoms | Sneezing, runny nose | Cough, sore throat | Ear infection possible | Exposure to chlorine, dust |
If your child is waking up with eyes sealed shut or has thick discharge, it’s more likely bacterial. But if both eyes are itchy with clear tears and there’s no fever? Allergies might be to blame.
When to Call the Pediatrician (and What to Expect)
Here’s when to reach out to your doctor:
- If symptoms last more than a few days without improvement
- If your child has a fever or other signs of illness
- If there’s pain, light sensitivity, or vision changes
- If one eye appears much worse than the other
- If your child is under 6 months old
Doctors may recommend observation, over-the-counter allergy drops, or in some cases, antibiotic ointment if a bacterial infection is likely. But not every case needs medication—and overusing antibiotics when they’re not needed can do more harm than good.
To help prevent summer eye issues:
- Rinse eyes after swimming
- Avoid rubbing eyes with dirty hands
- Keep screens at a healthy distance
- Use allergen-reducing eye drops (with your doctor’s OK)
- Keep kids home from daycare if the cause is contagious
Your child’s eyes are sensitive—but resilient. With a little care and attention, most minor issues clear up quickly, no eye patch required.
Newsletter Teaser
Title:
Think Your Kid Has Pink Eye? It Might Be Something Else
Subtitle:
Doctors are seeing a surge in red eyes—but not all of them are infections.
Intro Paragraph:
If your child’s eyes are red, itchy, or goopy, you might assume it’s pink eye. But a growing number of cases this summer are caused by something else. Learn how to spot the difference between allergy eyes, irritation, and actual infections—plus what to do next.
