Pink Eye in North Texas: What Parents and Families Should Know
Itchy, red, and hard to ignore — here's how to spot pink eye early and stop it from spreading through the whole classroom.
Written by: Corey Alexander
Published on: August 27, 2026
The new school year is underway, and North Texas classrooms are once again filled with young learners.
From Frisco to Fort Worth, back-to-school season brings shared supplies, crowded hallways and plenty of close contact in classrooms and on practice fields. Add the shift from summer routines to early mornings and kids' immune systems are working overtime. It's not just colds and flu parents need to worry about. There's also pink eye.
What Causes Pink Eye
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is inflammation of the thin tissue covering the white part of the eye. It can come from a virus, bacteria or an allergic reaction.
"We see all three types come through our doors, and the cause really does matter for treatment. Viral pink eye often follows a cold. Bacterial pink eye tends to bring thicker discharge. And with our pollen counts here, allergy-related pink eye is very common."
Simple Prevention Tips
Viral and bacterial pink eye spread easily through shared items like markers, tablets and desks, plus the close contact that comes with a full classroom.
"Once pink eye is introduced into the classroom, it can spread very quickly," Dr. Mayer said. "Kids should wash their hands often, avoid touching their eyes, especially while in class, and avoid sharing school supplies like pencils or headphones when possible. It sounds simple, but it is the most effective way to keep it from moving through a classroom."
Dr. Mayer said it's a good idea to wipe down shared devices and desks when possible. If a child is diagnosed with bacterial pink eye, they should stay home until they've been on antibiotic drops for at least 24 hours.
For viral pink eye, keep kids home from school until symptoms clear.
When to Seek Care
Most cases of pink eye are mild, but some symptoms may require a visit to Methodist Legacy ER & Urgent Care.
"If someone has significant eye pain, vision changes, sensitivity to light or symptoms that get worse instead of better, that is when we want to see them right away," Dr. Mayer said.
Methodist Legacy ER & Urgent Care offers urgent care and emergency services under one roof, so patients get the right level of care without guessing where to go first.
No appointment is needed. Find your nearest Methodist Legacy ER & Urgent Care location and get the care you need today.
