---
title: What is viral conjunctivitis?
description: "Viral conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva caused most commonly by adenoviruses. It is highly contagious and often associated with upper respiratory tract symptoms. ## Symptoms Patients typically experience red, watery eyes with a gritty or burning sensation, light…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-viral-conjunctivitis/"
updated: "2025-12-11"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is viral conjunctivitis?

Viral conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva caused most commonly by adenoviruses. It is highly contagious and often associated with upper respiratory tract symptoms.

## Symptoms

Patients typically experience red, watery eyes with a gritty or burning sensation, light sensitivity, and sometimes small lymph nodes in front of the ear. Discharge is usually watery rather than thick.

- Often starts in one eye and spreads to the other
- May follow a cold, sore throat, or general viral illness
- Vision can be mildly blurred from tearing or surface changes

## Management

Treatment is mainly supportive with lubricants and cold compresses; antibiotics are not helpful against viruses. Strict hygiene and avoidance of sharing towels or cosmetics reduce spread.

## Further Information

Blue Fin Vision® provides general advice on red, irritated eyes and explains how to distinguish viral from other causes in its educational content on conjunctivitis and eye infections.