Pool conjunctivitis in children, how to prevent it?

Some bacteria or viruses in the water that cannot be eliminated by chlorine give rise to infections in the eyes of children, they are known as "pool conjunctivitis".

When going to public swimming pools, it is a fairly frequent condition in summer among the smallest, so we will talk about how to prevent it and what to do in case we have not been able to avoid it.

Red eyes, tearing, stinging, sensitivity to light, feeling of having sand in the eyes are some of the symptoms that make us suspect the existence of conjunctivitis, the most common eye infection in children.

The causes are, in most cases, chlamydiae (Chlamydia trachomatis), bacteria resistant to chemicals that are released into the pool water. It can also be caused by some viruses, such as adenovirus and herpes virus.

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In turn, chlorine is also a very irritating agent, which can produce a reaction known as chemical conjunctivitis. It is a mild conjunctivitis that does not need treatment.

Prevent pool conjunctivitis

If you are going to go to a public pool it is recommended:

  • Wear diving goggles that protect the eyes from contact with water.

  • Do not share a towel

  • Shower after bath

  • Prevent the child from touching or rubbing the eyes

  • Use sunglasses with UV filter to avoid exposing the eyes to sunlight

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What to do if you have conjunctivitis

If the child has conjunctivitis it is not advisable to put the head in the water and must wear the eyes protected with sunglasses.

Of course, washing your hands frequently, not sharing personal toiletries or kissing or getting too close to other children because it is easily spread.

If after 24 hours the conjunctivitis persists go to the doctor who will prescribe a few drops with antibiotic.

Video: What Causes Conjunctivitis? (March 2024).