Prevent the spread of pink eye as your children go back to school

According to the American Journal of Infection Control, more than 3 million school days are missed annually in U.S. public schools as a result of acute conjunctivitis, also known as “pink eye.” The American Academy of Ophthalmology wants to teach parents and educators how to prevent the spread of pink eye in the classroom. Children are usually most susceptible because they are in close contact with so many others in schools or daycare centers. Some of the most common ways to get the contagious form of pink eye: reusing handkerchiefs and towels when wiping your face and eyes, forgetting to wash hands often, and frequently touching eyes. Encourage children to wash their hands often, tell them to avoid touching their eyes, discourage the reusing of towels, washcloths, handkerchiefs and tissues to wipe their face and eyes, change their pillowcase frequently. To find out more information on pink eye and other eye conditions and diseases, visit www.geteyesmart.org.

Article adapted by ProudParenting.com from the original press release.