Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) Treatment for Children

Conjunctivitis, often called pink eye, is a common condition in children that causes red, irritated, and sometimes sticky eyes. It can spread easily, especially in schools and childcare settings.

Your local pharmacy can provide assessment, advice, and treatment to help manage symptoms and reduce the spread to others.

Understanding your child’s symptoms

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the thin layer covering the white part of the eye and inside of the eyelids.

It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies, and is common in children.

What are the symptoms?

Common signs of conjunctivitis include:

• Red or pink eyes
• Itchy or irritated eyes
• Watery or sticky discharge
• Crusting around the eyelids, especially after sleep

Symptoms may affect one or both eyes.

Is it contagious?

Some types of conjunctivitis (viral and bacterial) can spread easily through hand contact, shared items, or close contact.

Good hygiene, such as hand washing and not sharing towels, can help prevent it spreading to others.

When should you be concerned?

While many cases are mild, it’s important to get advice if:

• Symptoms are severe or worsening
• The eye is very painful or sensitive to light
• There is no improvement after a few days
• You’re unsure what’s causing the symptoms

Our pharmacy team can help assess your child and guide you on the next steps.

How we can help

At Pharmacy Now, our pharmacists can:

• Assess your child’s eye symptoms
• Help determine the likely cause
• Recommend appropriate treatment options
• Provide funded treatment if your child is eligible
• Give advice on hygiene and preventing spread
• Refer you to a doctor or urgent care if needed

Who can use this service

Your child may be eligible for funded conjunctivitis treatment through your pharmacy if:

• They have an approved health need, and
• They are eligible for publicly funded health services in New Zealand, and
• They are under 14 years old

When to seek urgent medical help

Seek urgent medical care if your child:

• Has severe eye pain
• Has sensitivity to light or trouble seeing
• Has an eye injury or foreign object in the eye
• Develops swelling around the eye
• Has symptoms that are rapidly worsening

If you’re unsure, our pharmacy team can help you decide what to do next.

What to expect

Visiting Pharmacy Now is simple:

1. Speak with our pharmacist about your child’s symptoms
2. We’ll carry out a brief assessment
3. If appropriate, we’ll provide treatment or advice
4. If needed, we’ll refer you to a GP or other healthcare service

What does this service cost?

Many Extended Pharmacy Services are subsidised for eligible patients:

• If you have a Community Services Card (CSC), there may be a small charge of up to $5
• If you do not have a CSC, there may be a charge of up to $20

If you are not eligible for funding, you can still receive treatment - standard charges may apply.

Our team will always explain any costs upfront, so you can make an informed decision before proceeding.

Get help treating conjunctivitis today

If your child has red, irritated, or sticky eyes, early support can help ease symptoms and prevent spread.

Visit Pharmacy Now to speak with our friendly pharmacy team. We’ll assess your child’s symptoms, check if they’re eligible for funded treatment, and help you take the right steps for quick relief.