Infectiousness of the baby
Not all conjunctivitis is contagious. Those that are caused by allergies or by external circumstances such as draughts, dust or smoke are not contagious. However, conjunctivitis caused by bacteria or viruses is contagious.
No matter whether baby, toddler or adult, a bacterial or viral conjunctivitis can be transmitted to anyone. The pathogen often gets into the eyes via the hands, as babies and small children in particular often rub their eyes with their hands. The pathogen is also passed on in the same way.
Special hygiene is therefore very important in such cases. If there is conjunctivitis in the family, each family member should use their own towel and washcloth and wash their hands frequently. Babies can also develop conjunctivitis during birth.
This can happen if the mother is infected with Chlamydia or Gonococcus. Both types of bacteria cause venereal diseases, but often go completely unnoticed. During birth, these bacteria can be transmitted to the baby and can cause conjunctivitis.
Babies can also acquire a chlamydia infection in swimming pools. Just as with transmission during birth, this causes conjunctivitis, the so-called swimming pool conjunctivitis. If the conjunctivitis has been caused by a cosmetic product, it should not be used any further.
Any adhesions caused by the increased secretions of the eye can be cleaned at home. For this purpose: A darkened room or sunglasses can additionally contribute to the recovery of the diseased eye. – is cleaned with fresh compresses or boiled, cooled cotton cloths
