What is the management for viral conjunctivitis?

• A. Topical antibiotic therapy with broad-spectrum coverage.
• B. Oral antiviral therapy.
• C. Supportive measures with artificial tears and cool compresses.
• D. Urgent surgical intervention.

Answer: (C)

Viral conjunctivitis is managed with supportive care because the infection is usually self-limited and antibiotics don’t affect viruses. The main approach is comfort and preventing spread: use artificial tears to soothe irritation, apply cool or saline-ice compresses to reduce redness and swelling, and maintain excellent eye hygiene (handwashing, avoid rubbing the eyes, and don’t share towels or eye cosmetics). Antibiotics aren’t needed because they don’t treat viral infections and don’t shorten the course. Antiviral therapy isn’t routinely used for typical viral conjunctivitis; it’s reserved for specific viral ocular infections (such as suspected herpes simplex keratitis) and would be guided by an eye specialist. Urgent surgical intervention isn’t indicated for uncomplicated viral conjunctivitis. Reserve aggressive treatment for cases with vision changes, severe pain, corneal involvement, or signs suggesting another problem requiring specialist evaluation.