As coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads around the world, health professionals are urging people to limit their personal risk by thoroughly washing their hands, practicing social distancing, and not touching their nose, mouth, or eyes. The eyes play an important role in the spread of COVID-19.

Coronavirus is transmitted from person to person through droplets that an infected person sneezes or coughs out. These droplets can easily enter your body through the mucous membranes on the face, including your eyes.

Guard Your Eyes Against COVID-19

• Avoid rubbing your eyes. Although this is a very normal habit, try to fight the urge to touch your eyes. If you must, first wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Tears carry the virus. Touching tears or a surface where tears have fallen can spread coronavirus. Make sure to wash your hands after touching your eyes.
• Disinfect surfaces. You can catch COVID-19 by touching an object or surface that has the virus on it, such as a door knob, and then touching your eyes.

Coronavirus and Pink Eye

Viral conjunctivitis may be a symptom of COVID-19. If you suspect you have pink eye, call your eye doctor in Kettering right away so staff can assess your condition and adequately prepare for your visit.

Contact Lenses and COVID-19

If you wear contacts, make sure to properly wash your hands before removing or inserting them. Consider ordering a 3- to 6-month supply of contact lenses and solution. Gently wash the lenses and frames of your glasses with warm water and soap, and dry using a microfiber cloth.

From all of us at Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio, we wish you good health. Call us at (937) 228-2020.