How should I advise patients on the expected duration and self-care measures for viral conjunctivitis?

Expected Duration: Advise patients that viral (non-herpetic) conjunctivitis usually resolves within 1 to 2 weeks without treatment.

Self-Care Measures:

• Reassure that most cases are self-limiting and do not require antibiotics.
• Recommend bathing or cleaning the eyelids gently with cotton wool soaked in sterile saline or boiled and cooled water to remove discharge.
• Suggest applying cool compresses gently around the eye area to ease symptoms.
• Use lubricating agents or artificial tears to relieve discomfort.
• Advise frequent hand washing with soap and water to prevent spread.
• Recommend using separate towels and flannels and avoiding close contact with others, especially healthcare professionals or childcare providers, as infectivity may last up to 14 days from onset.
• Inform that there is no routine exclusion from school or nursery unless there is an outbreak.
• Advise patients to return for medical review if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or if red flag symptoms develop.