Fall will always be my favorite season for a few reasons. First, it’s the start of the festive season, second, unlimited mithai, laddus and candy (remember Phantom Sweet Cigarettes?), and of course, vacation time! Some of my fondest childhood memories are of October vacation trips with my family, and truth be told it’s probably how I got wanderlust in my blood. But that was then and this is now. And now the only trip most of us have been taking over the past year is from our bedroom to our fridge. We missed it last year, and but luckily we won’t have to this year. With the majority of people being fully vaccinated things are starting to look up. Trains and flights have resumed with the necessary precautions of course! So a refreshing getaway is finally possible. However, we still need to wear a mask, sanitize and practice all the safety protocols because it’s better to be safe than sorry. This brings us to the highlight of this article, COVID-19 eye safety tips to travel safely.
How does COVID-19 affect your eyes?
In certain cases, coronavirus has been known to cause allergic reactions and infections such as conjunctivitis. This occurs when the virus infects the conjunctiva, a tissue covering the white area of your eyes or the inside of your eyelids. Watch out for symptoms like redness, swollen, and itchy eyes. However, having conjunctivitis doesn’t necessarily mean you have COVID-19.
As you know, coronavirus is passed from person to person by breathing in droplets from a cough or sneeze. Yes, it’s as simple as saying, “hello.” Scary, isn’t it? That’s why you need to protect your mouth, nose and eyes at all times. Remember, wash your hands, avoid touching your eyes and SANITIZE, SANITIZE, SANITIZE! These basic precautions will help you stay safe anytime, anywhere, especially on your vacation.
COVID-19 Eye Care Travel Tips
#1 Take A Break From Contact Lenses
If you wear contact lenses, it’s best to avoid them while traveling. They are high maintenance and need a lot of care on a normal day, during a pandemic you need to be even more cautious to avoid infection. Although, this doesn’t mean you can’t flaunt them in your Instagram Stories. Just be extra cautious while wearing and removing them, keep your lens case clean at all times and always use lens solution because you never know when corona can creep into your eyes.
Also Read: Contact Lens Care In The Time Of COVID-19
#2 Specs It Up!
Glasses can be gorgeous too, and a lot safer when it comes to COVID-19. Glasses are easier to maintain and they act as an added layer of protection. So how do glasses protect you from COVID-19? If someone sneezes around you the droplets will land on your glasses, which can be easily cleaned with eyeglass lens spray. Contact lenses won’t give you this kind of protection. If you don’t wear glasses, choose zero power glasses or sunglasses in summery hues!
#3 Pack An Eye First Aid Kit
What’s this? It’s just like your regular travel first aid kit with a focus on your eyes. This kit should include medicated eye drops, ointments and antibiotics as prescribed by your ophthalmologist. You can also add over-the-counter hydrating eye drops or artificial tears. Don’t forget to pack your safety goggles, a spare pair of eyeglasses and extra contact lens solution.
#4 Trim Your Nails
This one is important especially if you choose to wear contact lenses. Dirt and grime can get under your nails, and if you don’t wash them thoroughly it can lead to infection and discomfort when you rub your eyes. So what if you sport a short manicure during your vacation? Safety should always come first.
#5 Keep Your Hands Away From Your Eyes
Avoid touching your eyes at all costs! Like we said, your mouth, nose and eyes are the gateways to being infected by COVID-19, so ensure you’re always wearing a mask and eyewear throughout your vacation.
The only good news about the pandemic is that we finally have a vaccine. But taking the jab doesn’t mean you can bravely go where no man can without proper protection. Be a responsible human because not everyone is protected with the vaccine yet. Wear a mask, sanitize your hands, maintain social distancing and don a cool pair of sunglasses to enjoy a safe, stress-free summer vacation!
