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Coronavirus and Eye Health: Ways to Stay Safe This Season

Major changes have developed in recent months across the globe, causing many people to panic over their personal safety. COVID-19 is a rapidly growing issue everywhere, with medical experts in the United States claiming that the actual number of affected individuals is likely 50 times more than what has been reported so far. Signature Optometry of Fresno has received a lot of questions concerning eye health and the novel coronavirus, and we want to put patients at ease.*

We’ll provide some simple advice to follow during this uncertain time and answer our most asked questions. Signature Optometry is closed during this period, but you can contact us if you have pressing concerns or emergency needs!

Avoid Touching Your Face

While you have likely been advised not to touch your face by dozens of close contacts and medical professionals over the past few weeks, it cannot be emphasized enough to exercise caution. The mucous membranes of your body (membranes lining the eyes, nose, mouth) are the most vulnerable to transmission of a virus. It is known that COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contaminated droplets expelled into the air through a cough or sneeze. These droplets can spread to others when inhaled through the nose or mouth, or when physical contact is made with unwashed hands.

Wash Those Hands

The CDC recommends thoroughly washing your hands often, especially if you travel outside of the home and come into contact with surfaces or individuals. Proper hand washing has been shown to be among the most effective ways to stay healthy during cold and flu season, as harmful germs are washed away before they can find a way into the body.

Reduce Your Exposure

Unprecedented measures are in place to prevent the ongoing spread of COVID-19, which can lay dormant for more than 10 days and be transmittable through individuals who are asymptomatic. Don’t risk exposure to large groups of people or individuals you suspect are feeling unwell. If you are sick, stay home and stay safe!

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Can I Get Coronavirus Through My Eyes?

While the chances of contracting the novel coronavirus through the eyes is unlikely, medical officials do cite that there is the possibility. Medical professionals are especially at-risk for infection through the eye, especially if proper protection is not worn. An infected patient may unknowingly spread the germs to their medical provider, who may have touched their eyes or other membranes such as the mouth.

Are there ways I can help to further protect myself?

In addition to the comprehensive precautions taken by our optometrists in Fresno, you can deploy a range of techniques to help minimize your odds of becoming ill and passing the germs onto others. A few tips to help you prepare for your appointment include:

  • Frequent hand washing — Proper washing of the hands can prove to be one of the most effective forms of protection against harmful germs and bacteria. Be sure to wash your hands often (for at least 20 seconds), especially if you are returning from a public place or entering a private setting.
  • Avoid touching your face — Dealing with an eye issue can make it challenging to resist touching your face, but we recommend actively focusing on this task to minimize the chances of coming into contact with harmful germs through the mucous membrane.
  • Keep your mask on — Statistics are showing the effectiveness of masks in reducing the spread of the novel coronavirus.
  • Keep your distance — Social distancing is one of the best effective ways to reduce the transmission of illness. Be sure to keep at least six feet in between you and others (regardless of facial coverings!).
  • Stay on guard — It’s important to notify your physician if you or anyone in your house begin to experience symptoms of COVID-19. If you are dealing with a fever, cough, runny nose, or loss of sense of smell or taste, minimize any exposure until you can follow up with your doctor.

During these unprecedented times, Signature Spex-i-Wear Optometry is here to provide support and peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about our eye care services in Fresno, and be sure to schedule your appointment to meet our optometrist!

Will My Eyes Show Symptoms of COVID-19?

A lot is still uncertain about this new disease, but medical experts are working to better understand the symptoms and dangers of COVID-19. One study from the New England Journal of Medicine compared rates of conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye, often known as pink eye) in coronavirus patients across China, and found that red, infected eyes were only present in 9 of nearly 1,110 cases. With a prevalence of less than 1%, experts are focused more on transference through other means.

Is Your Office Open During This Time?

Due to recommendations by the CDC and California Optometric Association, Signature Optometry will be closed. If you need emergency eye care, you can call our Fresno-based optometrists for assistance. Typical eye care such as vision exams and corrective lense upgrades are considered non-essential, but any emergency eye needs can be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Once everyone has been cleared to return to normal routines, we will be happy to schedule your eye exam

Need help? Contact us today for assistance!

*This content is meant to serve as helpful information, but should not serve as a substitute for medical care or as a means of treatment. Reach out to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns!