Which eye infection typically occurs 2-5 days after birth?

The eye infection that typically occurs 2-5 days after birth is gonococcal conjunctivitis, which is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This condition manifests in the neonatal period due to the exposure of the infant to the bacteria during delivery if the mother is infected.

Gonococcal conjunctivitis presents with a rapid onset of purulent discharge and significant redness of the conjunctiva. It is crucial for healthcare providers to recognize and treat this condition promptly, as untreated gonococcal conjunctivitis can lead to serious complications, including corneal damage and potential loss of sight.

In contrast, chlamydial conjunctivitis, although also a concern in newborns, typically manifests slightly later, usually around 5-14 days after birth. Staphylococcal infections are more common in older children and adults rather than neonates, and herpes simplex virus infection, while it can occur shortly after birth, often presents with additional systemic symptoms and a different type of conjunctivitis. Thus, the timing and causative agent make gonorrheal conjunctivitis the correct answer for this question.