Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis

Also referred to as EKC, severe viral conjunctivitis, or pink eye

Published
November 24, 2024
Last updated
July 29, 2024

About EKC

EKC is a highly contagious viral conjunctivitis ("pink eye") that can result in reduced vision. EKC is typically caused by adenoviruses. Transmission can occur in healthcare settings via contact with contaminated hands, surfaces, equipment, or medical products. Outbreaks are often associated with eye care settings, with investigations of clinic transmission often pointing to contamination of multi-use drops and tonometer devices. Clustered EKC infections should be reported to the appropriate state or local health department.

Key measures to prevent and control EKC transmission in healthcare settings include: 

  • Strict adherence to hand hygiene,
  • Use of disposable gloves for contact with eye secretions,
  • Effective environmental cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and equipment,
  • Using single use equipment and eye drops,
  • Cohorting of suspected conjunctivitis patients, and 
  • Work restrictions for symptomatic healthcare personnel.

Resources, Guides, Reports, & Toolkits

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Featured New Updated

Prevent Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis

By CDC

This resource provides cleaning and disinfection guidance for opthalmologic healthcare settings.

New Updated

Sample Line List

By Los Angeles County Dept. of Public Health

This is a ready-to-use template to document epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) outbreak information.

New Updated

Sample Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) Outbreak Patient Letter

By Los Angeles County Dept. of Public Health

This resource provides sample language for healthcare facilities communicating with patients on epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC) outbreaks.

New Updated

Adenovirus-Associated Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis Outbreaks — Four States, 2008–2010

By Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)

This CDC MMWR summarizes EKC investigations across four states and recommends outbreak control measures.

Epidemic Keratoconjunctivitis Outbreak Reports & News