Pink Eye. Pink eye is the common name for conjunctivitis, the inflammation or infection of the outermost membrane of the eye (conjunctiva) and inner part of the eyelid.ost cases of bacterial and viral pink eye can be treated with antibiotics or over-the-counter eye drops, although symptoms may last up to six weeks. There are many ways to contract pink eye, including the following: 1  Transmission of bacteria into the eye.