vCJD advisers respond positively to CL study

The Department of Health is seeking an early meeting with the profession after its SEAC group reacted positively to opticsÕ research regarding the re-use of trial contact lenses.
SEAC (Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee), the Government information group on the transmission of vCJD, has released details of its latest meeting regarding contact lenses and ophthalmic devices.
It considered research from the optical bodiesÕ joint working group. They funded research to find the effects on the physical parameters of rigid lenses of a decontaminating solution of 2 per cent sodium hypochlorite. The study found this method of determining the practicality of acceptable decontamination of lenses used on more than one patient was favourable.
While advising that Ôwherever practicableÕ a single use approach should be followed, SEAC agreed that use of the method was acceptable.
ÔEvidence was presented to the meeting by the optical profession that single use was impracticable for some devices, including rigid complex diagnostic lenses, tonometers and other highly specialised equipment,Õ SEACÕs statement said.
ÔThe committee considered that in such circumstances it would be important to apply best decontamination procedures, including, as appropriate, the use of a solution containing 20,000ppm of available chlorine of sodium hypochlorite.Õ
The statement followed a paper published in The Lancet (July 21) that claimed transmission of the disease could be made via instruments used in ophthalmic surgery.