Eye Protection

While they aren't believed to be the main vector for COVID-19 transmission, it is still worth it to protect your eyes from potential exposure if you can.

Glasses

Studies and Additional Information:

Is Glasses Wear Protective Against COVID-19? (Article summarizing various studies. JAMA Network. August 2022.)
"Study finds a significant reduction in the risk of COVID-19 infection among those who always wear glasses" (Summary of study. April 2022.)

Considerations:

You don't necessarily need to buy specific brands or types to get some protection for your eyes
"Tips for Wearing Glasses with Masks" (Article from AAPOS)
"4 Ways to Protect Your Eyes From COVID-19" (Video. March 2020.)
- helpful video for people who wear glasses, contacts, or eye make-up on best practices from an ophthalmologist

Brands/Links to buy

Article with a list of recommended eyewear (Rolling Stone. Dec 2021.)
Stoggles ($33.99+shipping)
- Peripheral protection similar to safety glasses
- ANSI Z87.1 Certified
- Prescription and non-prescription available

Eye Drops Containing Benzalkonium Chloride (BAK) 0.01%

Definition: a quaternary ammonium compound commonly used as a preservative in ophthalmic topical solutions. The activity of BAK against SARS-CoV-2 is not well understood.

Studies and Additional Information:

Research on the brands LUMIFY and BESIVANCE (Study by BAUSCH. Nov 2020)
- The research study linked above was done by Bausch, Lumify’s manufacturer

Considerations:

Not approved by FDA for prevention of COVID, has not undergone human clinical trials for this use (AFAIK-9/17/2023)

Brands/Links to buy:

LUMIFY ($21.99 at Target, Walmart)
BESIVANCE (prescription only)