As the country prepares for Halloween parties and trick or treating people in Ireland have been warned of the dangers of using novelty contact lenses. According to CORU, which regulates the sale of contact lenses in Ireland, wearing novelty contact lenses poses a severe risk to anyone who wears them. CORU has also warned retailers that it is a criminal offence in Ireland for unauthorised individuals to sell contact lenses.
Warning of the dangers Ginny Hanrahan, CEO of CORU, “Contact lenses should only be worn if you have been assessed by a professional and have a valid prescription. Anyone who uses novelty lenses is putting their vision in jeopardy. These products might look fun, but the reality is they are unacceptably dangerous.
“There are a number of common problems associated with the unsupervised use of contact lenses. This can include red, sore or dry eyes. But of even greater concern with these novelty lenses is that the quality has not been appropriately assessed. Poor quality lenses or poor hygiene practises can lead to very serious infections and complications, ultimately this can cause permanent blindness in extreme cases.”
Ms. Hanrahan also advised parents to be diligent about the risks of novelty lenses. “Parents of younger children will usually take part in the fun of making costumes, they should know it is unacceptable to give a child novelty contacts under any circumstances. But we also appeal to parents of teenagers or young adults to make sure they talk to their children and explain the risks. Most people would never consider using something this dangerous if they understood the risks, but the reality is many young people see it as harmless fun.
CORU will take action against anyone in breach of the laws on the sale of contact lenses Hanrahan warned. “Under Irish law the only people who may provide a contact lens prescription in Ireland is a CORU registered optometrist, dispensing optician or a doctor. Any other individuals or businesses who sell contact lenses are breaking the law. CORU monitors this, particularly at Halloween, we have brought prosecutions in the past and will not hesitate to do so in future if it protects the public.”
If members of the public see novelty contact lenses for sale they are asked to contact CORU immediately by emailing enforcement@coru.ie.
