CooperVision has been carefully monitoring the outbreak of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The safety of our employees, customers (both contact lens wearers and eye care professionals), partners and communities is our top priority.
There is currently no evidence to suggest that there is any increased risk of infection or contracting coronavirus through contact lens wear. Remember to encourage your patients to follow strict hygiene measures, such as thorough handwashing, along with optimal wear and care procedures. These include replacing lenses as prescribed, case hygiene for reusable lenses and avoiding lens wear if the patient is unwell (in particular with any cold or flu-like symptoms).
Please also remind your patients to avoid touching their eyes, especially in high risk environments.
Patients can read more about lens wear and care at https://coopervision.co.uk/about-contacts/contact-lens-tips-you
As a trusted partner, we want to ensure you have the pertinent information you need to manage your practice during this challenging time. Please refer to your local health authority and relevant professional bodies for further information and advice. Additional resources regarding COVID-19 and contact lens wear can be found below.
Advice for patients from CORE: 5 FACTS infographic:
General Optical Council: Coronavirus (COVID-19) latest information
College of optometrists: COVID-19 College updates
BCLA: Contact Lens Wear and Coronavirus guidance
https://www.bcla.org.uk/Public/Public/Consumer/Contact-Lens-Wear-and-Coronavirus-guidance.aspx
ABDO: Advice on COVID-19
https://www.abdo.org.uk/coronavirus/
OPTICIAN TRADE ARTICLE and CET: Contact Lenses and Covid-19 L. Jones et al
Contact Lens Practice in the time of COVID-19. Editorial in Contact Lens and Anterior Eye by Fabrizio Zeri and Shehzad Naroo
WHO : Q&A on Coronaviruses (COVID-19)
https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: COVID-19 Situation Summary
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html