Well, what a year it’s been. Covid-19 has been a part of all our lives for well over a year now, and whilst we’re all well adept with living this new-norm, things are constantly changing and evolving.
As travel begins to become more frequent (within Australia and even beyond), it’s good to be aware of how the virus spreads. We know that wearing a mask and maintaining good hygiene is a great way to protect ourselves and others from the virus, but what about the eyes? Can you contract Covid-19 through your eyes?
The answer is: yes. It is certainly possible that you could contract Covid-19 through your eyes. Teeny tiny droplets fly through the air all the time, so small we can’t see, and those tiny droplets can enter your body through an orifice – one being your eye.
It’s also possible to contract Covid-19 if you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your eye, which is why washing your hands and avoiding touching your face is so important.
Contracting the virus through your eye is less likely than catching it from inhalation through the nose or mouth, and the current climate in Australia puts the chances of contracting the virus at all quite low in most regions.
If you’re in a high-risk area or your job requires you to be in a situation where you have a heightened exposure to Covid-19, the best way to protect your eyes, nose and mouth is to wear a mask and full face shield (similar to what you may see doctors in Covid-19 wards wearing).
We all know the drill by now – practice good hygiene, wear your mask when it’s mandatory or in a place you cannot adequately socially distance, and above all, follow all health advice from authorities. Let’s keep Australia safe!
For more comprehensive and up-to-date information regarding Covid-19, please refer to the official World Health Organisation: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
_____
Zephyr Medical is a bulk-billed mobile optometry clinic, servicing the South-East Queensland and Northern NSW regions. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive services to benefit their eye health in the comfort of their home or workplace. Get in touch with us today to book an optometrist appointment that suits your schedule. Book a free appointment here.
Comments