bacterial conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the inner eyelids and covering the white of the eye. While viral infections are more common, bacterial infections can also cause conjunctivitis.

In humans, common bacterial culprits include Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Haemophilus influenzae. A serious form, gonococcal conjunctivitis, caused by gonorrhea, can lead to blindness if not treated promptly, especially in newborns. Chlamydia trachomatis causes trachoma, a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide, and inclusion conjunctivitis. Bacterial conjunctivitis typically presents with a thick, colored eye discharge.

In animals, such as cattle, infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis is an inflammation of the eye caused by infection, often involving Moraxella bovis. This condition can lead to reduced milk production in dairy cattle and weight loss in beef cattle. Factors like sunlight and face flies can contribute to its spread. Antibiotics are often used for treatment in both humans and animals.12