Good Hygiene Habits
are Critical during the global COVID-19 / coronavirus pandemic
The world’s most prominent ocular scientists reassure contact lens wearers during the global COVID-19 / coronavirus pandemic：
1. You Can Keep
Wearing Contact Lenses
There is currently no scientific evidence that contact lens wearers have an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 compared with glasses / spectacles wearers. Consult your eye care practitioner with questions.
2. Good Hygiene Habits
are Critical.
Thorough handwashing and drying are essential, as well as properly wearing and caring for contact lenses, ensuring good contact lens case hygiene, and regularly cleaning glasses / spectacles with soap and water. These habits can help you stay healthy and out of your doctor’s office or hospital.
3. Regular Eyeglasses / Spectacles
Do Not Provide Protection.
No scientific evidence supports rumors that everyday eyeglasses / spectacles offer protection against COVID-19.
4. Keep Unwashed Hands
Away from Your Face.
Whether you wear contact lenses, glasses / spectacles or require no vision correction at all, avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes with unwashed hands, consistent with World Health Organization (WHO) and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations.
5. If You Are Sick,
Temporarily Stop Wearing Contact Lenses.
Contact lens wearers who are ill should temporarily revert to wearing eyeglasses / spectacles. You can resume use with fresh, new contact lenses and lens cases once you return to full health and have spoken with your eye care practitioner.
*Published in Contact Lens & Anterior Eye, “The COVID-19 Pandemic: Important Considerations for Contact Lens Practitioners”