Strep infections can be serious, but often they are not. In most cases, they are easily treated once the diagnosis is made.

Have you ever been told that green mucus or green snot means you have a bacterial infection and need antibiotics? This is a common misconception. Yes, mucus color can be a helpful piece of information. But it is not a diagnostic piece of information - it is just one piece of a puzzle.

Mostly, pinkeye simply needs time and not antibiotic treatment. But there is a lot of confusion among healthcare providers, schools and daycares about return to school guidelines when it comes to conjunctivitis.