Crusty, itchy eyes? It's probably conjunctivitis. Picture this: you’re just about to go into a meeting and you get the dreaded phone call. Your child has sticky green stuff emerging from their eyes and you need to go and fetch them. Conjunctivitis is one of those unfortunate ailments that can spread easily through nursery and school settings.While it’s uncomfortable for children, it doesn’t usually make them very unwell, which can make life a little bit tricky when you need to stay home and look after an energetic (albeit crusty-eyed) little one while also working.The health issue – which is typically characterised by red, itchy, watery or sticky eyes – typically goes away anywhere between two days to three weeks after symptoms show.What causes conjunctivitis?Conjunctivitis can be caused by an infection – either viral or bacterial – and, as a result, can be highly contagious.Because of this, experts recommend for parents to encourage children not to rub their eyes and to wash hands frequently if they catch it.It’s also wise not to share any towels, flannels or pillow cases with them – and to wash everything that’s been in contact with their eyes with hot water and detergent.Toys should also be regularly