The Wall Street Journal reports a change in Chlorination of Water Supplies may be linked to increased eye infections.
Could a decrease in the amount of chlorine found in the Chicago area water supplies be to blame for the recent contact lens solution recall? According to the Wall Street Journal, Drs. Charlotte Joslin and Elmer Tu of the University of Illinois’ Department of Ophthalmology in Chicago have suggested that the increased eye infections and last year’s outbreak of fungal infections may be in relation to a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency decision in 1998 that would restrict the levels of chlorine byproducts and other chemicals in drinking water.
It can be speculated that the reduced chemicals may have increased amoeba growth in the water supply, which in turn could produce more infections for contact lens wearers. This is especially true when those contact lens wearers showered or used pools and tubs while wearing their contact lenses. Keep your eyes open for more information. I will continue to post with any new information here as well, so remember to check back often.
If anything, this latest recall should remind us all that proper care and hygiene are most important when it comes to contact lens wear. In todays world, contact lenses seem to be considered another accessory, like shoes, a watch, or makeup. In reality, contact lenses are a medical device. They have potential to be very dangerous when not monitored or used properly.
I am a huge fan of contact lenses (obviously 
) and because of that, I stress the importance of care and maturity when using them.
