Can You Go to Work with Pink Eye? What You Need to Know
Scotch Plains
April 5, 2025 • 2min
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is a common and highly contagious eye condition that affects people of all ages. If you’ve recently developed red, itchy, or watery eyes, you may be wondering: “Can I go to work with pink eye?”
At Scotch Plains Medical Center / Urgent Care, we help patients get quick answers and proper treatment to avoid spreading infection and get back to daily life safely.
What Is Pink Eye?
Pink eye occurs when the conjunctiva, the thin layer that lines your eyelid and eyeball, becomes inflamed. It can be caused by:
- Viruses (most common and very contagious)
- Bacteria (also highly contagious)
- Allergies (not contagious)
- Irritants like smoke, chlorine, or dust
Understanding the cause helps determine whether it’s safe to go to work—and whether you need treatment.
Symptoms of Pink Eye
Common symptoms include:
- Redness in one or both eyes
- Itching or burning sensation
- Watery or thick discharge
- Swollen eyelids
- Crusting of the eyelashes (especially in the morning)
- Increased sensitivity to light
Can You Go to Work with Pink Eye?
The answer depends on what type of pink eye you have:
✅ Allergic or Irritant Pink Eye
You can go to work because it’s not contagious. Just avoid rubbing your eyes and manage symptoms with antihistamines or eye drops.
❌ Viral or Bacterial Pink Eye
You should stay home, especially during the first 24–48 hours of symptoms or after starting treatment. These forms are highly contagious and spread easily through:
- Hand-to-eye contact
- Shared surfaces (keyboards, doorknobs)
- Towels, makeup, or pillowcases
Going to work could expose coworkers and customers, especially in healthcare, food service, education, or childcare settings.
When to Visit Urgent Care for Pink Eye
Come to Scotch Plains Medical Center / Urgent Care if you have:
- Persistent redness or discomfort
- Thick yellow or green discharge
- Light sensitivity
- Eye pain or blurred vision
- Symptoms lasting more than a few days
- A pink eye diagnosis but no improvement with treatment
We offer same-day evaluations and can determine if your conjunctivitis is viral, bacterial, or allergic. We’ll prescribe antibiotic eye drops if needed and provide return-to-work guidance.
Tips to Avoid Spreading Pink Eye
If you’re diagnosed with contagious pink eye:
- Stay home for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics
- Wash hands frequently
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes
- Don’t share personal items like towels or cosmetics
- Clean surfaces and pillowcases often
Fast Pink Eye Relief at Scotch Plains Urgent Care
Pink eye might be common, but it can interfere with your daily routine and workplace safety. If you’re unsure whether it’s safe to go to work or need quick treatment, visit Scotch Plains Medical Center / Urgent Care.
We’re open 7 days a week with no appointment necessary—walk in today and get back to feeling (and seeing) better fast.
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