Given that there is no scientific information on the presence of the hydrophilic material virus (contact lenses), and that there is no evidence that humans can be infected through contact lenses, we still recommend certain precautions that everyone should take. who wears contact lenses during a pandemic.

There are three reasons why people who wear contact lenses are at risk for infection:

  • The virus can be transmitted to the eyes when in contact with the hands;
  • Coughing or sneezing at a sick person nearby (less than 1.5 meters) can bring the contact lens virus through airborne droplets;
  • The conjunctiva is one of the entrance doors for the transmission of infection in the body.

Of course, the risk is much higher if we are close to positive hospitalized patients.

Recommendations for patients wearing contact lenses
  • Carefully wash your hands with soap or an alcohol-based product before and after wearing contact lenses;
  • Carefully wash your hands before and after removing contact lenses;
  • Avoid touching your nose, mouth and face while inserting or removing lenses;
  • Perform the procedure of placing and removing the lenses on a clean surface;
  • Always check the expiration date of the contact lenses;
  • Change contact lens containers more often;
  • Disinfect the lenses once a week with a solution of hydrogen (hydrogen peroxide) or enzyme tablets for this purpose;
  • Remove contact lenses immediately in case of redness of the eyes or symptoms of the disease;
  • Do not touch the contact lenses with the mouth or use saliva to clean them.
Recommendations for patients wearing glasses

The virus can remain on the surface of the glasses especially if we are staying in an infected environment, so we need to be careful not to we touch the glasses and wash our hands often.

You can wash the glasses with liquid soap, being careful not to scratch the glass. Change glasses boxes and cases more often.

Recommendations for doctors and medical staff in contact with COVID-19 patients

Patients with COVID 19 must not wear contact lenses. It is recommended to wear glasses during the treatment.

It is recommended for medical staff in an infected environment to wear glasses, and those who wear contact lenses must wear goggles or shields.

Of course, it is mandatory for all of us to wear protective masks and gloves, no matter what of our state of health.