Method of Diagnosis Microscopic examination of a smear or bacteriologic culture of the discharge. Discharge from the conjunctivae or upper respiratory tract of infected persons. Infected mothers during vaginal delivery. It is infectious while there is discharge. Susceptibility and Resistance Children under five years are most often affected.
Incidence decreases with age.
Immunity after attack is low-grade. Control of Case Children should not attend school and child care settings until discharge from eyes has ceased. Soiled articles should be disinfected. Treatment Local application of antibiotic ointment or drops. Control of Contacts Investigation of contacts and source of infection not practicable.