Distinguishing viral from bacterial disease is very important for the following reasons:

1. It is Highly Contagious
Unlike bacterial conjunctivitis, which becomes relatively non-contagious after 48 hours of appropriate antibiotic therapy, viral conjunctivitis does not improve with topical antibiotics and remains highly contagious until the eye is no longer red and tearing.

2. You Want to Avoid Spreading the Disease
Patients who have viral "Pink Eye" should be out of school, work or day care longer than patients who have "Pink Eye" caused by bacteria, because they can infect their classmates, co-workers or family members. This limits the spread of disease.

3. Prescribe Antibiotic Treatment Only if Needed
A negative test result means the cause of the "Pink Eye" is most likely not viral. Therefore, a patient can receive topical antibiotics and return to work, school or day care knowing with confidence they are less likely to be contagious after 48 hours of using the antibiotic treatment. Bacterial conjunctivitis improves faster and becomes less contagious after using topical antibiotics. Viral conjunctivitis does not.

4. Lets You Avoid Antibiotic Treatment When
Not Needed
The over use of antibiotics can breed antibiotic-resistant bacteria that make the use of the antibiotic less effective over time. Furthermore, antibiotic medications are known to trigger allergic reactions and may cause toxicity.

5. Lets You Avoid Severe, Long-term Effects
Some types of viral conjunctivitis can lead to persistent decreased vision, light sensitivity, tearing and lid scarring. By preventing the transmission of viral disease, you can help limit these complications.

6. It Saves Time & Money
By having an accurate diagnosis, patients can limit the costs associated with unnecessary topical antibiotics, repeated office visits and referrals.

7. Results Are Fast and Accurate
The RPS Adeno Detector™ can provide health care professionals with an accurate diagnosis in just 10 minutes while the patient is in the office.