How long does it take to show signs of cure for conjunctivitis?

3-8 days: Most conjunctivitis is viral in origin and the body's defenses will organize and defeat the virus in 3-8 days for most kinds. You will notice a lessening of symptoms especially discharge, irritation and redness. You are infectious until the symptoms start to diminish.

Usually 1 - 2 days: Usually 1-2 days if the patient is being treated with antibiotic drops for a bacterial conjunctivitis. Often however the conjunctivitis is from a virus which does not respond to antibiotics (because it is a virus). If that is the case conjunctivitis may last a week. If not getting better go back to doc or see an eye specialist.