Is a Stye (Hordeolum) Contagious?
A stye (hordeolum) itself is not directly contagious from person to person, but the bacteria that cause it—primarily Staphylococcus aureus—can spread through contact, making good hygiene practices essential to prevent transmission and recurrence. 1, 2
Understanding the Infection
A hordeolum is a painful, acute bacterial infection of the eyelid oil glands, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. 1, 2 While you cannot "catch" a stye simply by looking at someone who has one, the causative bacteria can be transmitted through:
- Direct contact with infected secretions or discharge from the affected eyelid 2
- Sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, pillowcases, or eye makeup 3
- Hand-to-eye contact after touching contaminated surfaces 3
Key Hygiene Measures to Prevent Spread
To minimize transmission risk and prevent recurrence, patients should:
- Avoid touching or rubbing the affected eye, and wash hands thoroughly if contact occurs 3
- Do not share towels, washcloths, or cosmetics with others during active infection 3
- Discard eye makeup used during the infection period, as bacteria can persist in these products 4
- Change pillowcases frequently to reduce bacterial recolonization 3
- Practice regular eyelid hygiene, especially if underlying blepharitis is present, as this is a common predisposing factor for recurrent hordeola 1, 4
Important Clinical Context
The infection remains localized to the eyelid gland and does not spread systemically or through casual contact. 1 However, patients with underlying blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation) have increased bacterial colonization and are at higher risk for developing recurrent styes. 1, 3 Treating the underlying blepharitis with eyelid hygiene measures is crucial to prevent recurrence. 1
Children with recurrent styes warrant particular attention, as a history of styes in childhood is associated with increased risk of developing adult rosacea. 3 Additionally, family members should be educated about not sharing personal items to prevent bacterial transmission within households. 3
When to Suspect Something More Serious
While styes are typically benign, recurrent hordeola in the same location, especially in elderly patients, should raise suspicion for sebaceous carcinoma and warrant biopsy. 1, 4 Other warning signs include marked asymmetry, resistance to therapy, eyelid margin distortion, or lash loss. 1