Caring For Contact Lens And Glasses In The Age Of CoronaVirus Outbreak

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how we live and interact with the world. As people try to adapt to this new reality, many are concerned about their eye health, particularly those who wear contact lenses or glasses. While no evidence suggests that wearing contact lenses or glasses increases the risk of contracting COVID-19, it is important to take steps to maintain good eye hygiene to protect yourself and others. Here are some tips on how to care for your contact lenses and glasses during the coronavirus outbreak.

Wash your hands frequently

One of the most important things you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect your eye health is to wash your hands regularly. Before you touch your contact lenses or glasses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This will help remove any harmful bacteria or viruses on your hands, which could be transferred to your eyes through contact lenses or glasses.

Disinfect your contact lenses and glasses

In addition to washing your hands, it is also important to disinfect your contact lenses and glasses regularly. Use a disinfecting solution recommended by your eye doctor to clean your contact lenses before and after each use. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, and never reuse or top off your solution.

For glasses, use a lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth to clean both sides of the lenses. Make sure to clean the frames and earpieces, as they can also harbor bacteria and viruses. Avoid household cleaners or alcohol-based solutions, as these can damage the lenses.

Avoid touching your face

Touching your face, particularly your eyes, can increase the risk of infection. If you wear contact lenses, avoid touching your eyes as much as possible, and be sure to remove your lenses before touching your face. If you wear glasses, try to avoid adjusting them with your hands. Instead, use the earpieces to adjust them if necessary.

Use a travel contact lens case

When it comes to traveling, using a travel contact lens case is an excellent way to protect your lenses from dirt, dust, and other contaminants. A travel contact lens case is designed to hold your contact lenses and a travel-sized contact solution bottle. Some travel contact lens cases, such as Oplee™ Travel Contact Lens Case, even include a built-in mirror and storage for your eyeglass case. 

It's important to note that you should never transfer contact solution from a large bottle to a smaller one. Doing so is not safe and could lead to an eye infection. So use a travel contact lens case that works with standard travel-sized (2 fl oz) contact solution bottles produced by most contact solution manufacturers. 

Be aware of your symptoms

COVID-19 can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can provide guidance on what steps to take to protect your health and the health of others.

In conclusion, while no evidence suggests that wearing contact lenses or glasses increases the risk of contracting COVID-19, practicing good eye hygiene to protect yourself and others is still essential. Regularly washing your hands, disinfecting your contact lenses and glasses, avoiding touching your face, using a travel contact lens case, and being aware of your symptoms are crucial in maintaining good eye health during the pandemic. Following these tips can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep your eyes healthy and safe.