Health experts are urging people to avoid touching their face, as SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19 can enter the body through the mouth, nose and eyes. This leaves millions of people across the globe who wear contact lenses wondering whether they are placing themselves at risk with use of contacts, or if they should make the switch to glasses during the pandemic. A lot of information has been circulating the internet about contact lens wearers being at higher risk of becoming infected with COVID-19, but there’s also a lot of misinformation – let’s put the rumors to rest.
There is currently no scientific evidence that contact lens wearers have an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 compared with users of eye glasses. Should you have some questions about this, it’s best to consult your ophthalmologist.
Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious diseases expert, says it is safe for people to continue wearing contact lenses as long as they remain diligent about hygiene. And good contact lens hygiene means washing your hands with soap and water. A lot. It’s also better to avoid alcohol-based soap alternatives, or sanitizers, before inserting or removing contact lenses, as you may experience some stinging or burning. Lastly, it’s not just washing to watch out for – drying is just as important! It’s imperative to use a clean towel and dry your hands thoroughly. These habits will help you stay healthy and out of your eye doctor’s office or hospital in general.
Whether you wear contacts, glasses, or require no vision correction, you should avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth when your hands are unwashed, to avoid contracting any illnesses. Dirty hands mean more than just the spread of COVID-19. You can also contract Pink Eye or other eye infections or other unpleasant illnesses. Ophthalmologists recommend that you temporarily stop wearing your contacts and use your glasses instead if you become ill. Once you return to full health and have spoken with your eye doctor, it should be safe to return to contact lens use.
Lastly, there is absolutely no scientific evidence supporting rumors that everyday glasses or spectacles offer protection against COVID-19.
For more information about eye safety, contact lenses and their use, as well as information on how to protect yourself from coronavirus, visit the following website: