Three of the world's most published researchers in eye health have published their consensus, and the verdict is YES! Contact lens wear is safe. Despite some myths and misinformation currently circulating, these researchers have concluded that contact lens wear remains a safe and highly effective form of vision correction for millions of people worldwide.
Proper handwashing is essential! Thorough handwashing with soap and water followed by hand drying with an unused paper towel should occur before each insertion and removal of the contact lenses.
Proper contact lens disinfection protocol is essential. Contact lens wearers should either dispose of their daily disposable lenses each evening or regularly disinfect their monthly and two-week lenses according to the manufacturer and eye care professional instructions.
Discontinue contact lens wear only if you are sick. This advice is always in place, but especially true during this outbreak COVID-19 illnesses. Testing has been performed to check for the presence of the COVID-19 virus in the tears of those with confirmed COVID infections, and there is to date no evidence of the virus in the tears.
Optometry clinics in British Columbia have been deemed an essential service during the COVID crisis, but our college and association have strongly recommended that we limit our patient encounters to urgent and emergency eye care only. If you need to order more contact lenses, please contact us via phone or email and we will be happy to help you with your order. We are offering safe, socially-distanced payment and pick-up options, as well as FREE direct shipping to your home.
We are also in the process of launching an e-commerce site for fast and convenient purchasing of the contact lenses, eye drops, and vitamins that have been prescribed by your optometrist. Stay tuned!!
Dr. Lisa Scharf
