Could a parent catch conjunctivitis from his baby?

Yes, if…: If the conjunctivitis is caused by an infectious agent like a virus or bacteria, it can be passed to someone else. Conjunctivitis is generally passed by direct contact with secretions just like a cold, so good handwashing and separation of washcloths and the like is the best way to prevent spread. Older children and adults are often immune to some of the viruses that cause conjunctivitis.