Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care now if the baby's cornea looks cloudy or white, the eyelids are very swollen, or pus returns quickly after being wiped away.
These signs can occur with a rapidly progressing infection.
Emergency assessment is also needed if the baby has a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, is difficult to wake, feeds poorly, has trouble breathing, has a seizure, develops blisters or a widespread rash, or seems generally very unwell.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Arrange a same-day medical assessment for any newborn younger than 28 days who has:
A red eye or red inner eyelids
New eyelid swelling
Yellow, green, or heavy discharge
Eyelids repeatedly stuck together
Symptoms that continue after routine cleaning
Eye symptoms following possible exposure to chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or herpes
After treatment has started, contact the treating service promptly if symptoms worsen, spread to the other eye, or fail to improve in the expected time.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up is still important even when the eyes appear better.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Neonatal conjunctivitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.