Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is caused primarily by infections (viral or bacterial), allergies, or irritants.

How You Can Get Conjunctivitis:

• Viral conjunctivitis: Caused by viruses commonly linked to colds and respiratory infections. You can catch it through contact with infected eye secretions from coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces like towels or eye makeup. It is very contagious.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria from your own skin, respiratory system, or contact with an infected person or contaminated contact lenses. It can spread through direct eye contact or sharing personal items.

• Allergic conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, animal fur, or other allergens. This type is not contagious and occurs due to the body's allergic reaction.

• Irritants: Exposure to chemicals, smoke, dust, or foreign objects in the eye can cause conjunctivitis, but this is not contagious.

Summary:

You get conjunctivitis via direct contact with infectious agents from another person (especially viral and bacterial forms), by touching contaminated surfaces or objects, or through exposure to allergens or irritants. Viral and bacterial forms are contagious, while allergic and irritant types are not.

If there is a need, advice from healthcare providers can help identify the cause and appropriate treatment.