BCLA updates swim advice

The British Contact Lens Association has reiterated its advice not to wear contact lenses when swimming, in the hot tub, showering or participating in water sports, unless wearing tight fitting goggles over the top.

This follows recent media interest (News 24.08.12) when a monthly contact lens wearer was blinded in one eye as a result of Acanthamoeba after swimming. The BCLA added that after swimming, or if lenses are removed and stored while swimming, they should be cleaned and disinfected before being reinserted.

It recommended that regular swimmers talk to their eye care practitioners (ECPs) about being fitted with daily disposables for use with goggles which are then discarded immediately after swimming.