Staying Healthy in Child Care - National Health and Medical ...

Responsibilities of child care providers/staff
Inform the director and the parents of the child.
Since bacterial and viral conjunctivitis look the same, the child should see a doctor for
proper diagnosis and treatment. Any child in the centre showing signs of
conjunctivitis should be isolated from the other children until the source of the
irritation can be confirmed.
Responsibilities of parents
Observe the exclusion period. The child should see a doctor for proper diagnosis and
treatment.
Controlling the spread of infection
Effective hand washing is essential, especially before and after touching the eyes or
face.
Dispose of soiled tissues appropriately.
Do not share towel, washcloths, etc.
Treatment
Antibiotic eye drops or ointment may be prescribed by a doctor. Regular cleaning of
the eyes may make the child feel better. It is important to use a separate cotton wool
ball or tissue for each eye to avoid cross-infection and use warm but not hot water.
Wipe the closed eye gently but firmly to remove the excess pus – do not clean inside
the eyelids as this may cause damage to the conjunctiva or the cornea (the clear front
of the eye).
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Draft for Public Consultation