New research into occupations that have an increased risk of COVID-19 exposure has shown that eyecare professionals face a higher threat than most other professions. Read more
Opticians feature on Britain’s 2020 Rich List
Specsavers founders Mr Doug and Dame Mary Perkins have featured in Britain’s 2020 Rich List, alongside an optical businessman who sold his contact lens company to CooperVision for more than AU$1 billion. Read more
Eyes an ‘important route’ for coronavirus transmission
Public health researchers believe the eye may be a key entry point for coronavirus to infect the body, in a world-first study that reveals the current strain is up to 100 times more infectious than SARS.
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Novartis acquires gaming tech for ‘lazy eye’
Novartis is collaborating with video game developers and academics to develop digital technology to treat amblyopia following its completed acquisition of US-based software startup, Amblyotech. Read more
Scientists modify commercial contact lens to correct colour blindness
Researchers have modified an off-the-shelf contact lens to correct a form of red–green colour blindness known as deuteranomaly, the most common type of colour vision deficiency. Read more
Study findings suggest coronavirus replicates in the eye
A new study into Italy’s first coronavirus patient has found she had traces of the virus in her eyes for several weeks, even after it had become undetectable in nasal swabs. Read more
Profession to look ‘stronger than ever’ in new optometry documentary
The global eyecare community is poised for the virtual screening premiere of Open Your Eyes, a new documentary highlighting the increasing role of optometrists as frontline detectors of systemic diseases. Read more
Unlocking the secrets of the eye’s proteins
A new understanding of how proteins in the eye are prevented from clumping together has opened up new possibilities for the prevention and treatment of cataracts. Read more
Novartis provides safety update for Beovu
A safety review into Novartis’ new anti-VEGF drug Beovu has revealed that reported adverse events are consistent with the approved prescribing information after a group of US retinal specialists linked it to a series of vasculitis cases. Read more
University designs slit lamp breath shield prototype
Engineers have developed an expanded breath shield that can be mounted to slit lamps, providing greater protection to eyecare professionals performing urgent and essential care during the COVID-19 crisis. Read more