How To Keep Your Eyes Safe from Germs

This flu season, we all want to keep our eyes safe from germs and other contaminants.  

It is easy to remember that germs can enter our bodies through our mouth and nose, but we often forget that the eyes are just as likely of a pathway.

So, that begs the question, how do we keep our eyes safe from germs?  

In this post, Oxford Family Vision Care will give you some tips for protecting your eyes from germs this flu season.  

Use These Tips to Protect Your Eyes from Germs 

Protecting your eyes from germs doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow these tips for a healthier flu season. 

Let’s look at how germs infiltrate our eyes and how you can prevent them from getting in.  

How Germs Infiltrate Our Eyes 

Two main factors contribute to germs entering our eyes. Number one is rubbing our eyes, and number two is not washing our hands.  

As you can imagine, these two factors tie into one another.  

Germs can live on our hands for up to three hours, especially if you touch a source like plastic or stainless steel where germs can survive for longer periods.  

That means if you touch a surface with germs and then rub your eyes (something we do often, especially if we are tired), you have a very good chance of infecting yourself.  

How to Prevent Germs from Entering Your Eyes 

There are a few things you can do to keep your eyes safe from germs. Some are obvious and others are less apparent.  

The most effective thing you can do is to regularly wash your hands. This will kill germs at the source and ensure they never have time to enter your eyes. Take at least 20-30 seconds to wash your hands with soap and water, and be sure to cover every surface of your hands (including your wrists and between your fingers).  

It is best to wash your hands after you touch a door handle, work with raw meat, shake another person’s hand, or interact with a sick person. When in doubt, it is better to wash your hands than not.  

Another thing you can do is clean your glasses regularly. Your glasses can become covered in germs if someone coughs or sneezes near you. Take some time to disinfect your glasses to kill germs and bacteria that have landed on them.  

Another very effective strategy is to make a conscious effort not to touch your face. After a few hours of practice (consistently reminding yourself not to touch your face), it will become automatic, and you will find that you touch your face much less frequently than before. 

Another effective strategy is to simply avoid sick people. That can mean that you do not go to crowded events like concerts, bars, or other places where many people congregate. That can also mean that you avoid contact with sick friends or family members. And if you do have to interact with sick people, make sure you wash your hands and wear a facial mask.  

Finally, if you wear contact lenses, you must be sure to follow contact lens hygiene guidelines. Not only will this reduce your chances of getting sick, but it will also reduce your risk of a serious eye infection.  

Better Eye Health with Oxford Family Vision Care 

Keeping your eyes healthy and safe this flu season is no complicated task. 

It's as simple as protecting your eyes from germs and scheduling regular eye exams with a trusted provider.  

If you are looking for the best eye exams in Butler county, and within walking distance of Miami University, then Oxford Family Vision Care is here for you! 

To schedule your eye exam today, reach out to Oxford Family Vision Care now!