As the country begins to face the daunting task of reopening in a safe and thoughtful manner, Wilkinson Eye Center is now seeing patients on a limited basis, prioritizing emergencies, and medically necessary appointments. Our primary goal is to keep our patients and our staff safe and healthy. To accomplish this, we are reducing the number of people working, spreading out appointments, and requiring all patients to wear masks. We have also implemented strict disinfection procedures to help keep our patients safe when they visit our offices.
Safety Is Our Top Priority
While all of us are eager to put the pandemic behind us, the likelihood is that we will be forced to live and work under different conditions from now on in order to prevent not only COVID-19 but future fast-spreading viruses as well. The habits we all adopt now may keep us safer for the foreseeable future. Masks have been proven to reduce the rate of transmission by up to 80% simply by minimizing the number of droplets that reach the air from each individual. And washing hands can literally save lives. The virus breaks down in the suds of soap and cannot live.
Screenings Will Be Necessary for the Foreseeable Future
Whether you’re traveling, attending an event, or coming to Wilkinson Eye Center for an appointment, you should expect screening. We will greet you at the door and ask a series of questions related to your health. You should not come to the office if you have a fever or other symptoms. Some places you visit may have more stringent requirements, such as requiring proof of a negative test result. Many places will be scanning people for signs of fever.
Pink Eye and COVID-19
One of the less common symptoms of COVID-19 is pink eye. It is rare – less than 3% of those with coronavirus develop pink eye. Because the novel coronavirus can both infect the eyes and be spread through tears, it’s important not to rub your eyes or touch your eyes without first thoroughly washing your hands.
COVID-19 and Eye Health
Like the nose and mouth, eyes are a portal for contracting COVID-19. If someone coughs or sneezes on you, the infected droplets can enter through your eyes. As well, wearing contacts can be risky right now, because it requires you to touch your eyes and introduces an unnecessary element of risk. Wearing glasses may help shield you from touching your eyes with your hands or being contaminated by another person’s droplets.
We are happy to be able to see patients again and encourage you to call to determine if you should come in for an appointment or if we are able to schedule a telehealth visit. Contact us at (248) 334-4931 or fill out a Contact Form here.
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