Glasses are an essential tool for vision correction. They allow us to see the world better, to be comfortable in all lighting conditions and to protect our eyes from all kinds of harmful elements. Because we, at IRIS, believe that eye safety should be a priority in all circumstances, here are some tips for wearing glasses in the context of this global COVID-19 pandemic.
Clean your glasses regularly
We know that the virus is transmitted by contact with droplets, either by direct contact with an affected patient (coughing, sneezing), or by indirect contact, via environmental surfaces that you touch (door handles, switches) before touching your face. Your glasses are included in the category of external elements that are frequently handled. You may not realize it, but you probably touch your glasses several times a day, and even more often if you only wear them in certain situations - reading glasses and sunglasses are more frequently manipulated than other types of eyeglasses. Currently, research shows that the virus could survive on your glasses for 5 to 9 days.
Clean your frames with a mild soap, such as dish soap, and lukewarm water. The cleaning of your lenses can be carried out as usual, with the same mixture of mild soap and water or with the product that was recommended by your eye care professional. Complete the cleaning process by drying your glasses with a microfibre cloth to avoid scratching them.
Protect your eyes with your glasses
Going outside regularly for some fresh air on the balcony or for a stroll around the neighbourhood can help lift your spirits. Just don't forget your sunglasses! UV rays don’t take a break and even on a cloudy day can cause damage to your eyes.
Similarly, the bluish radiation produced by our screens is also something to keep in mind. Working from home has become the norm these days and we’re stuck on our screens more than ever. Since blue light is a known cause of eyestrain and can also affect your circadian rhythm, choose glasses with protection against blue light, and correct the brightness of your screens with options such as "night shift" (Mac) and "night light" (PC).
During this period of confinement, some people are using their time to carry out minor renovations, deep cleaning or small repairs. Wearing a pair of safety glasses during risky activities is advisable in order to avoid any impacts to the eye and to keep foreign bodies from entering. In the absence of safety glasses, glasses offer greater physical protection than contact lenses, so prioritize wearing your glasses in these types of situations.
Did you lose or break your glasses?
If the damage is major or if it’s impossible for you to continue wearing your glasses, feel free to contact us. We have protocols in place throughout the IRIS network in order to provide emergency services for this type of situation.
