Infective conjunctivitis

Aim

To provide an update for community pharmacy technicians on the assessment and management of conjunctivitis. 

Objectives

After completing this module, pharmacy technicians will:   

• Be able to describe the common types of conjunctivitis and differentiate between them in practice 
• Identify red flag symptoms that require urgent referral
• Explain the role of self-care and OTC treatments.

Key facts

• Conjunctivitis provides a useful example of how community pharmacy practice is evolving, from self care and PGD supply to independent prescribing and greater responsibility for antimicrobial stewardship
• Most cases of conjunctivitis are self-limiting and can be managed safely in the pharmacy with reassurance, self care advice and OTC treatment
• Itching is a key feature that helps to distinguish allergic conjunctivitis from infective causes
• Bacterial conjunctivitis is less common than viral conjunctivitis, particularly in adults, and antibiotics offer only modest benefit in shortening symptom duration
• Chloramphenicol eye drops should be reserved for selected cases where symptoms are more severe, persistent or significantly affecting daily activities
• Clear recognition of red flag symptoms, including pain, photophobia and visual disturbance, is essential to ensure timely referral and patient safety.

Contributing author: Jane Portlock, Professor of Pharmacy Postgraduate Education,
University of Reading