Are you worried about the surging number of COVID-19 cases in Alberta? Here are five easy ways you can protect your eyes and health as the second wave rises.
It's safe to say we're well entrenched in the grips of the second wave of COVID-19. Alberta has consistently been breaking daily case and hospitalization records, and the effects of newly imposed restrictions are only expected to start showing up within the next few days or so. We're in the thick of things, so to say, and it's understandable if you and your family are beginning to get worried again, much like in the spring.
Here are five easy things you can do to help protect not only your eyes but your overall health as COVID-19 surges across the province.
Looking for a comprehensive eye exam in Calgary or Three Hills? My Optometrist Calgary has you covered! We're happy to announce that we are once again fully open following our brief closure due to the initial outbreak of COVID-19. We’ve taken the necessary precautions to ensure our customers and staff remain safe given these still uncertain times, and are looking forward to seeing all our amazing patients again safely in person. Contact us today to book a comprehensive eye exam appointment in Calgary or Three Hills, and let's make sure you're still seeing clearly during this hazy period.
As we near the end of this unprecedented year, you can be forgiven if you've grown weary and tired from the constant drain COVID-19 has brought to our everyday lives. But we mustn't drop our guard or become any less vigilant, especially here in Alberta, where we now have more active cases than ever before.
One way you can remain vigilant is by protecting your eyes, hands, and mouth. Doing so can help slow the spread of SARS-CoV-2, which will hopefully aid in reversing our current alarming course.
1. Consider switching to glasses if you currently wear contacts. We know COVID-19 can enter our body through our eyes just like it can our nose and mouth. While there is currently no evidence to suggest contact lens wearers are at a higher risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2, we do know those who wear them tend to touch their eyes more than the average person does. Wearing your glasses may cause you to pause and think twice before doing so.
2. Your glasses may provide an added layer of protection. Eyeglasses and sunglasses can provide protection against respiratory droplets that are infected with the novel coronavirus. But they do not offer 100 per cent protection. The droplets may still access your eyes from the sides, top, and bottom. If you want to protect your eyes better, you could consider wearing safety goggles as an increased measure.
3. Make sure you stock up on your eye medicine. If you have essential eye medication that you use to treat an eye condition or stave off vision loss, you should do your best to stock up on it now. This will help you get through a potential self-isolation period of 14 days or safeguard you against limited supplies. If your insurance is making it tough for you to purchase your eye medication in advance or stock up, contact us today, and we can try to help. Don't forget to request any refills as soon as they're due too.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS AND PROTOCOLS
4. Try not to rub your eyes. We know you've heard it before, but it bears repeating as the daily case numbers continue to shock and dismay. By not rubbing your eyes, you'll lower your risk of infection. While it can be hard to break this natural tendency, if you feel the need to rub your eyes, grab a tissue and do so with it. And if you need to touch your eyes to insert contact lenses or for some other reason, just make sure you wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before you do.
5. Continue practicing physical distancing and good hygiene. Make sure you're still washing your hands a lot, using hand sanitizer when you can't, and keeping six feet of distance between you and other people. If you can't stay six feet apart, wear a mask. And wear your mask when compelled to by the bylaws that have been enacted. Vaccines are on their way. Let's get through this second wave and on to better days.
If you need a comprehensive eye exam in Calgary or Three Hills, My Optometrist Calgary has you covered with our advanced eye care. Contact one of our My Optometrist Calgary eye clinics at either 403-256-0606 (Health First Optometry), 403-291-0923 (Sunridge Vision Centre), or 403-443-2040 (Three Hills Optometry) and book your appointment today. Our eye specialists are looking forward to helping you in a COVID-19 safe way!
Connect With Us Today!
Our Eye Care Professionals are thrilled to serve the Calgary and Three Hills, Alberta area for over 35 years! With our main floor access, vast medical eye care services, and enhanced supplier choice and selection for frames, prescription eyeglass lenses and contact lenses, we've got you covered. Book an appointment online, come see us in person, or shop for your eye care products. Reach out today!