The following advice can be given to customers with infective conjunctivitis, regardless of whether or not OTC chloramphenicol is to be used, to help reduce symptoms and prevent the spread of infection:

• Bathe the eyelids with lukewarm water to remove any discharge and help soothe the redness and itching. The eye should be cleaned by wiping from the bridge of the nose to the outer eye, using a fresh piece of cotton wool or gauze for each wipe. Tissues, gauze and cotton wool used to wipe the eyes should be disposed of
• Avoid wearing contact lenses until symptoms have resolved
• Follow hygiene measures (e.g. wash hands, avoid sharing pillows and towels)
• Seek medical advice if symptoms do not settle within seven days, or if visual disturbance, significant eyelid swelling, photophobia or pain in the eye develop
• Seek medical advice if there is no improvement after treatment with chloramphenicol, or symptoms deteriorate after two days of treatment.