There is too little information available to categorically state whether – or not – wearing contact lenses increases your risk of coronavirus infection. There , however, is no evidence that it does. But… there is no doubt that some contact-lens wearers touch their eyes more often than those who don’t wear lenses. Perhaps, consider substituting glasses for your lenses, particularly if you touch your eyes frequently.

By now we are all aware of the Covid-19 precautions but there is no harm in reminding you to wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth – in other words keep your hands away from your face and, if you are going to keep wearing your contacts, follow good lens hygiene All these common safety measures can significantly reduce your risk of getting infected.

Although wearing glasses may add certain protection from infected respiratory droplets, don’t rely on them because the tops, bottoms, and sides are open. Your glasses, however, will help remind you not to touch your eyes. If you don’t use corrective eye wear, sunglasses could provide the same protection, but neither your glasses nor your sunglasses should be considered a personal protective device against Covid-19.

Those caring for infected patients should consider wearing safety goggles because they would provide a stronger guard.

Tips for those who can only wear contact lenses:

• if possible, use disposable contact lenses that you will change every day
• if not disposable, ensure you clean your contact lenses, and the cases, thoroughly – every day
• consider using a hydrogen-peroxide-based, lens-cleaning solution, and rinsing your lenses in a saline solution prior to inserting them
• use fresh solution every night
• discontinue wearing contact lenses if you are ill with any symptoms
• be vigilant regarding check-ups with your optometrist
• keep extra, critical-eye medication so that if your pharmacy is in short supply, you will not be caught short while waiting for stock to arrive.

Dry eyes can lead to frequently rubbing your eyes. If you have this condition, we suggest you add moisturising drops to your eyecare routine. And remember to wash your hands before, and after, touching your eyes – for any reason. For an eye itch or to readjust your glasses, use a clean tissue, which you will then discard.

In the event that you develop abnormal eye symptoms such as:

• redness
• pain
• sensitivity to light
• foreign body sensation
• abnormal secretions during or after wearing lenses

contact us immediately.

Remember our budget plan offer and please read our previous blogs  to keep yourself informed about eye conditions and eye care.

We offer a safe, welcoming environment, follow all the Covid-19 health protocols – and we implore you to follow good eye-care practices.