As the pandemic continues, many countries, including our own, are lifting restrictions and seeking ways to return society to a sense of normalcy. These are positive and optimistic steps, but we must remind ourselves that easing restrictions will likely be slow and gradual, and we should not neglect taking precautions.
How can we protect our eyes from COVID-19?
Although there is a lot of concern about the coronavirus, it is important to remember that common-sense precautions can significantly reduce your risk of infection. Protecting your eyes, along with your hands, nose, and mouth, can help slow the spread of the virus. Wash your hands regularly, maintain proper contact lens hygiene, and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Here are some ways to keep your eyes safe and healthy during the coronavirus pandemic.
1. If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to glasses for a while.
There is no evidence that wearing contact lenses increases your risk of COVID-19 infection. However, contact lens users tend to touch their eyes more frequently than average.
If you notice that you touch your eyes often while wearing lenses, consider wearing glasses more frequently. Using glasses instead of lenses can reduce irritation and give you a pause before touching your eyes.
2. Wearing glasses can serve as an additional layer of protection.
Prescription or sunglasses can help shield your eyes from infectious respiratory droplets. However, they do not provide complete protection, so continue following other safety measures.
3. Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Breaking this natural habit may be challenging, but doing so will reduce your risk of infection. If you feel the urge to scratch, rub, or even adjust your glasses, use a tissue instead of your fingers.
If you need to touch your eyes for any reason, including applying eye drops, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after.
By following these simple rules, we can largely protect our eyes from the coronavirus. If you experience redness, discharge, or decreased vision, do not hesitate to consult your eye doctor.