Pink Eye and Work: When Can You Return?
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is one of the most visible illnesses — your coworkers will notice immediately. But whether you need to stay home depends on the type of conjunctivitis you have and your workplace.
Types of Pink Eye and Work Impact
| Type | Contagious? | Time Off Needed? | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viral conjunctivitis | Yes (highly) | 1-3 days recommended | Self-limiting (7-14 days) |
| Bacterial conjunctivitis | Yes | Until 24 hrs on antibiotic drops | Antibiotic eye drops |
| Allergic conjunctivitis | No | Usually not | Antihistamine drops |
| Irritant conjunctivitis | No | Usually not | Remove irritant, rinse |
When to Stay Home
Stay home if:
- Your eye is actively weeping/discharging
- You have viral conjunctivitis (contagious for 10-14 days, most contagious first 3-5 days)
- You work in healthcare, childcare, or food service
- You cannot avoid touching your face/eyes
- Your vision is significantly impaired
You can likely work if:
- You have allergic conjunctivitis (not contagious)
- You've been on antibiotic drops for 24+ hours (bacterial)
- Discharge has stopped
- You can maintain good hand hygiene
- You don't work in close contact with others
Workplace Policies
Many employers have specific policies about pink eye because it's so visible and contagious:
- Childcare/schools: Often require 24 hours of treatment before return
- Healthcare: May require clearance from occupational health
- Food service: Should stay home while actively contagious
- Office work: Can often return with good hygiene practices
Sick Note Considerations
Pink eye absences are typically short (1-3 days), which falls within the protected period in many provinces. However:
- If your employer insists on documentation, an online sick note is quick and avoids exposing a clinic waiting room to your contagious condition
- If you need antibiotic drops, the prescribing physician's visit may serve as documentation
- For recurring pink eye, your employer may request documentation to confirm the pattern
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer send me home for pink eye?
Yes. Employers have a duty to maintain a safe workplace. If you have contagious conjunctivitis, they can require you to leave until you're no longer contagious.
How long is pink eye contagious?
Viral: up to 14 days (most contagious first 3-5 days). Bacterial: until 24 hours after starting antibiotic drops. Allergic: not contagious at all.
Do I need a sick note for 1 day off with pink eye?
Check your province's employment standards. In Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, short absences (1-3 days) are protected from note requirements.
Sources
- Canadian Ophthalmological Society — Conjunctivitis Guidelines
- Public Health Agency of Canada — Infectious Disease Prevention
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety