What is the prognosis for viral conjunctivitis?

• A. It requires long-term antibiotic therapy to resolve.
• B. No resolution without antiviral medication.
• C. Very good; most patients experience spontaneous resolution within 1-2 weeks.
• D. It commonly leads to vision loss.

Answer: (C)

Viral conjunctivitis generally runs a self-limited course and tends to resolve on its own within about one to two weeks. This makes the prognosis very good, with most patients returning to baseline without the need for targeted antiviral therapy. Management focuses on supportive care—cool or warm compresses, artificial tears, and strict hygiene to prevent spread—rather than antibiotics or antivirals, which do not speed recovery in typical cases. Vision is usually preserved, and serious vision loss is not expected in uncomplicated viral conjunctivitis. Exceptions exist for specific viral eye infections (like certain herpes simplex cases) where antivirals are necessary, but that handheld scenario alters prognosis and treatment.