Eye protection during a pandemic

COVID-19 is better known as coronavirus, and is still unfortunately the dominant news topic around the world. It is important to keep in mind that while protecting ourselves, we also protect others by continuously acting in accordance with the recommendations of the profession. The human body reacts differently to the virus, regardless of the sensitivity and condition of each individual. That is why it is extremely important to adhere to proper protection measures to stay safe and healthy.

In any case, without or with a coronavirus pandemic, health care should be the best possible.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Always wash your hands when you get home or to work
  • Use a disinfectant gel if soap and water are not currently available
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing (do not use your palms)
  • Throw used wipes in the trash right away, remember to wash your hands when you can
  • Avoid contact with people who have symptoms of infection
  • Health care includes eye care. Although it is unlikely that we can become infected with the coronavirus through the mucous membrane of the eye, it is necessary to follow hygiene instructions to reduce the risk.

WEARING CONTACT LENSES
If you wear contact lenses for vision correction, it might be helpful to switch to glasses, during a pandemic. Generally speaking, people who wear contact lenses touch their eyes more than the average person, which can increase the risk of the germs spreading.

If you happen to touch your eyes often, you may want to consider wearing glasses more often. Replacing your contact lenses with glasses can reduce irritation and could also act as a means of preventing constant eye contact.

Whatever you decide, be even stricter in washing your hands before inserting and removing lenses. Hand washing is something that should always be done as a routine anyway, but increasing the frequency will help reduce the chances of infection and virus transmission.

EYE PROTECTION
Wearing goggles could act as an extra layer of protection. The new coronavirus is known to be a respiratory virus that primarily spreads in contact with an infected person through mouth and nose drops that occur when an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes, very similar to the common cold or flu. In addition to respiratory hygiene, goggles can act as an additional barrier that helps protect the eyes, although they will not provide 100% safety.

If you are in or near a potentially exposed person or your job is such that you are in contact with other people throughout the day, you may want to consider wearing safety goggles or a mask for more effective protection.

ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS VISIBLE TO THE EYES?
Research from ophthalmic clinics around the world shows that redness of the eyes is not observed in a person with the COVID-19 virus until the late stage of the disease. This research has been supported by several international research projects.

REDUCE THE RISK
You can reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection by a few simple measures that you should be vigilant about, with regular monitoring of information and expert advice. Start washing your hands often and long enough. Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces in your home as viruses can survive for hours on different surfaces. Take care of yourself and take care of others.

Understanding the symptoms of Coronavirus can help reduce the chances of infection.

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