Doctors of optometry from the American Optometric Association’s (AOA) Contact Lens and Cornea Section urged contact lens wearers to take proper precautions amid reports of a potentially sight-threatening eye fungus appearing in the United States with increased frequency.
U.S. health officials are on alert after a recent outbreak of severe corneal infections associated with contact lens wearers in Asia began surfacing in America. The New York State Department of Health has issued an alert in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, acknowledging that they are investigating three cases of Fusarium keratitis, a severe corneal fungal infection that has recently been linked to soft contact lens use. Optometrists in Florida and Iowa also have reported seeing similar cases in patients.
“This recent news is cause for concern, but not for alarm,” said Jack Schaeffer, O.D. and chair-elect of the Contact Lens and Cornea Section of the AOA. “We want our patients to be aware that there is a problem out there and that the details are unfolding as we speak. We remain committed to protecting the eye health of Americans throughout this situation.”
Health officials have not yet determined whether the cases in the United States are directly related to outbreaks in Asia. Treatment for Fusarium keratitis includes anti-fungal medication. However, some patients have reportedly experienced a significant loss of vision, resulting in the need for a corneal transplant.
“We want to make sure Americans are taking the necessary precautions to protect themselves in this interim period as information becomes available,” said AOA President Richard L. Wallingford, O.D. “It is imperative that contact lens users practice safe handling of their contact lenses, are aware of any potential vision problems and alert their optometrist as they occur.”
Doctors of optometry urge anyone who experiences the following symptoms to contact their optometrist immediately:
- Sudden blurred or fuzzy vision
- Red and irritated eyes lasting for an unusually long period of time
- Pain in and around the eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Excessive eye tearing
From PR Newswire