Eyecare is always important, yet often overlooked. During the COVID-19 pandemic, how you take care of your eyes could play a major role in your risk for the virus.
The eyes have been identified as an entry point for the virus, where tiny water droplets can enter the body. The virus can also enter through the eyes if they are touched after contact with an infected surface.
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If you wear contact lenses, you’re touching your eyes every day. If you forget to wash your hands before inserting or removing the lens, you’ve put yourself at risk.
For the course of the pandemic, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has recommended limiting the use of contact lenses and switching to eyeglasses if possible. Eyeglasses don’t require eye-touching and can even block droplets from entering the eye.
The organization does point out, however, that there is no evidence showing that wearing contacts can boost the risk for COVID-19. But it does seem that glasses might be the best option if you need corrective lenses.
Even glasses will not guarantee freedom from risk. Droplets can still enter through the sides or above the frame, and viruses, although unlikely, can get on your lenses or frames.
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To limit the risk of contracting a virus through your eyes, make sure you’re washing your hands regularly and avoid touching your face. Washing your hands before touching your glasses is also recommended.
Wash your glasses each day using warm water and mild soap before drying with a microfiber cloth. This will prevent the lenses from scratching. It’s also recommended that you avoid hanging glasses with straps around your neck, or putting them down on surfaces you aren’t sure are clean.
Overall, the risk of contracting the coronavirus from your eyewear is pretty low. Glasses are the preferred way to go during the pandemic. As long as you’re practicing social distancing, good hand hygiene, and limiting face touching, you should be okay.
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
