Protecting Yourself from Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba Keratitis will generally affect healthy people, most of whom wear contact lenses (not required).

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States, an estimated 85% of cases occur in contact lens users. The incidence of the disease in the U.S. is approximately one to two cases per million contact lens users.

The following practices should assist you in safeguarding yourself from the Acanthamoeba Keratitis eye infection:

• Proper storage and handling of contact lenses
• Proper disinfection of lenses (Do not use tap water or homemade solutions to clean the lenses)
• Do not swim, use a hot tub, or shower while wearing contact lenses
• Avoid coming into contact with contaminated water

UPDATE: The use of certian contact lens solutions has been linked to the development of Acanthamoeba Keratitis.  On May 26, 2007, Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) in association with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) voluntarily recalled its popular its Complete® MoisturePlus Multi-Purpose Solution.

Complete® MoisturePlus Multi-Purpose Solution has been linked to an outbreak of Acanthamoeba Keratitis.  Learn more and see if you qualify to participate in an Acanthamoeba Keratitis Lawsuit.