WHAT CONTACT LENS WEARERS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CORONA VIRUS
There is so much information out there, some true and some false, that we wanted to make sure you are getting accurate information. At this time, there is no recommendation from the CDC or AOA to discontinue contact lens wear. However, the CDC recommends that we refrain from touching out eyes, nose and mouth. As a contact lens wearer, we know that can be difficult.
To avoid possible infection, we have always recommended washing your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses. We now recommend that you wash your hands both before and after putting your contact lenses in and again before and after removing your contact lenses. It is also recommended that you follow all manufacturer instructions for proper cleaning and disinfection listed on your contact lens solution bottle. Our office does have contact lens solution available for those who need additional supplies. If you are still concerned about disinfection, we recommend changing to a hydrogen peroxide solution such as Clear Care. If you do so, be sure to read the instructions carefully prior to use, and to call our staff if you have any questions.
If you will be needing a supply of contact lenses in the next 2-3 months, we are recommending you order them now! We are closed to all non-urgent patients at this time; however, we are available by both phone and online for contact lens orders. We are also extending contact lens prescription on a case-by-case basis for up to 6 months without an evaluation. We aren’t sure how long our distributors will continue to fill orders, so if you think you will need contacts lenses, we suggest ordering them ASAP! These orders will be able to be delivered to your home or picked up at our office with an appointment only.
Finally, we are offering the option of switching to a daily switching to a daily disposable lens temporarily for patients who are concerned about re-wearing their monthly lenses during this time. If you would like to discuss of that is an option for you, or if you have any questions about COVID-19 and contact lenses wear, please call our office. Our customer service for non-urgent issues are Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm until April 6th.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to give our doctors a call.
Thank you!
