Eye Fungus Infection on the Rise Months after ReNu Recall - http://www.eye-zine.com/?id=327&keys=eye-fungus-healthDoctors of optometry from the American Optometric Association's (AOA) Contact Lens and Cornea Section urged contact lens wearers to take precautions after reports of a potentially sight-threatening eye fungus appearing in the United States.
U.S. health officials are on alert after a recent outbreak of severe corneal infections associated with contact lens wearers in Asia began surfacing in America. The New York State Department of Health has issued an alert in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, acknowledging they are investigating cases of Fusarium keratitis, a severe corneal fungal infection that recently has been linked to soft contact lens use.
Health officials have not yet determined whether the cases in the United States are directly related to outbreaks in Asia. Treatment for Fusarium keratitis includes anti-fungal medication. However, some patients have reportedly experienced a significant loss of vision, resulting in the need for a corneal transplant.
Doctors of optometry urge anyone who experiences these symptoms to contact their optometrist immediately:
- Sudden blurred or fuzzy vision
- Red and irritated eyes lasting for an unusually long period of time
- Pain in and around the eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Excessive eye tearing
