AOA: Optometrists Seeing Increase In Flood-Related Eye Infections

The Sioux City Journal (6/5, Fox) reported, “According to the American Optometric Association, doctors of optometry have seen an increase in flood-related eye infections, particularly in areas throughout Iowa, and believe that these cases will continue to rise in the coming weeks.” That is because “flooding causes an increase in the incidence of water-borne pathogens — including amoeba, parasites, bacteria and viruses. These can be dangerous to the eye and may lead to infections, other complications and even loss of sight,” particularly if someone wears contact lenses and uses tap water instead of sterile eye care products to clean them.