Conjuntivitis (pink eye), which is an inflammation of the conjuntiva, the delicate mucous membrane covering the front of the eye & the insides of the eyelids. The conjuntiva becomes red, swollen & may discharge water or pus. The infection is caused by bacteria (the bacterium Chlamydia is implicated) or microorganisms, & may quickly spread, reaching epidemic proportions in environments such as schools. Acute conjuntivitis may last from one to three weeks. It is not a serious condition although complications may arise.