Which of the following statements about viral conjunctivitis is true?

Which of the following statements about viral conjunctivitis is true?

• A. It is rarely contagious.
• B. It is typically unilateral with purulent discharge.
• C. It is most commonly caused by bacterial pathogens.
• D. It is very contagious and commonly due to adenovirus.

Answer: (D)

Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and most commonly caused by adenovirus. It spreads easily through hand-to-eye contact, shared towels, or swimming pools, leading to outbreaks in communities such as schools. Clinically it often presents with a watery or mucoid discharge, red eye, itching, and a sensation of something in the eye; the infection may start in one eye but typically involves both eyes within a short time. Because it’s viral, antibiotics don’t shorten the illness; management focuses on supportive care and strict hygiene to prevent spread. In contrast, purulent discharge with crusting points more toward bacterial conjunctivitis, and while viruses can cause conjunctivitis, adenovirus remains the most common viral cause. The statement describing it as very contagious and commonly due to adenovirus accurately reflects its typical pattern.

Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and most commonly caused by adenovirus. It spreads easily through hand-to-eye contact, shared towels, or swimming pools, leading to outbreaks in communities such as schools. Clinically it often presents with a watery or mucoid discharge, red eye, itching, and a sensation of something in the eye; the infection may start in one eye but typically involves both eyes within a short time. Because it’s viral, antibiotics don’t shorten the illness; management focuses on supportive care and strict hygiene to prevent spread. In contrast, purulent discharge with crusting points more toward bacterial conjunctivitis, and while viruses can cause conjunctivitis, adenovirus remains the most common viral cause. The statement describing it as very contagious and commonly due to adenovirus accurately reflects its typical pattern.