Better health and ageing for all Australians

Final report - Risk factors for eye disease and injury

5.4 Eye infections

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      5.4.1 Do infection control measures reduce the incidence of eye infections?

      The only papers published from 1997 to 2006 relevant to this question and included in the review were those relating to trachoma. In the case of this disease, there is conflicting evidence as to whether infection control measures such as insecticide sprays, antibiotics, health education and face washing reduce the incidence of trachoma.

      Further research is needed to determine whether specific infection control measures reduce the incidence of eye infections.

      5.4.2 What impact does contact lens use have on incidence of eye infections?

      The only papers published from 1997 to 2006 relevant to this question and included in the review were those showing an increased risk of acanthomoebic keratitis in those using contact lenses (Group 1).

      See Chapter 6 for information on the emerging practice of orthokeratology.

      5.4.3 Does education on use and misuse of contact lenses affect incidence of eye infections?

      The only paper published from 1997 to 2006 relevant to this question and included in the review was a randomised controlled trial (RCT) that showed that education did not significantly increase compiance with correct contact lens use in lens users. No studies looking specifically at incidence of eye infections were found.

      Further research is needed to determine whether education on use and misuse of contact lenses reduces the incidence of eye infections.
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