Handwashing and Other Ways to Prevent Eye Infections this Winter | Handwashing Awareness Week

Handwashing is one of the most important ways to reduce infections, including eye infections, so it is important to do it correctly and often.

The first week in December is Handwashing Awareness Week. It is a great reminder about the importance of taking this simple but effective steps to reduce your chance of developing an eye infection. 
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​The risk of eye infections in the winter

Some types of infections are more common during the winter months. Certain types of pathogens may survive better in colder weather. Also, the cold weather often forces people inside, where it is easier to transmit many types of viral infections.

Many types of eye infections associated with viruses may occur more often in the winter. For example, conjunctivitis (pink eye) may be more common during the winter. The infection involves the layer of tissue that covers the front part of the eye called the conjunctiva. Viral conjunctivitis is linked to other types of viral infections, such as the flu, which tend to occur more often during the winter.

Viral conjunctivitis may occur in one or both eyes. Symptoms may include:

• Redness
• Itchiness
• Discharge from the eye
• Excess tearing
• A gritty feeling in the eye

Usually, viral conjunctivitis clears up in a week or two. In the meantime, treatment involves reducing discomfort and symptoms. Treatment may include applying warm or cold compresses to ease itchiness and artificial tears to decrease irritation.

Some studies also indicate that certain type of fungal infections may occur more often during the winter compared to the summer months. Although fungal eye infections are less common than other types of infections, they can be serious and may threaten vision. Research in the Journal Cornea found that Candida infections were less likely in the summer. 
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Proper handwashing: when and how

Handwashing is easy, but it is essential to do it correctly to get the most protection against infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most efficient way to wash your hands includes the following steps: 

• Wet your hands with warm water.
  
• Apply soap and lather well. Be sure to lather the back of your hands and under your nails. 
  
• Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds, getting between your fingers. 
• Rinse well with warm water. 
• Allow your hands to air dry or use a clean towel. 

Four principals of handwashing endorsed by the American Medical Association include: 

• Washing your hands when visibly dirty 
• Washing your hands before eating 
• Do not sneeze and cough into your hands
• Do not put your fingers into your mouth or eyes 

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Additional ways to reduce eye infections 

Consider some of the tips below to reduce the chances of developing an eye infection this winter.

Avoid being around people that are sick: In 2020, we learned a lot about social or physical distancing to prevent the spread of infection. To reduce your risk of getting sick, it  is important to avoid being around people that have a cold or other viral infection, like COVID-19.

Don’t rub your eyes: Most of us rub our eyes from time to time without even thinking about it. Try to remember to avoid touching your eyes unless you just washed your hands.

Wash your hands before inserting or removing contact lenses: Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses and removing and applying eye makeup.

Don’t share eye makeup: Avoid sharing eye makeup, such as liner, eye shadow, and mascara with anyone.

See an eye doctor: If you have signs of an eye infection, it’s best to see an eye doctor to determine the cause and check for complications. In some cases, antibiotic eye drops or steroids may be needed.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have about eye health. If you would like to talk about whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would currently be appropriate, please call our office at 508-746-8600.