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Halloween contact lens
health hazard
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[OCT.
27, 2003]
SPRINGFIELD -- Fernando E.
Grillo, director of the Illinois Department of Professional
Regulation, warns consumers about the illegal sale of cosmetic
contact lenses being sold without the necessary prescriptions by
unlicensed vendors and via the Internet. As Halloween approaches,
more vendors will likely be offering designer or cosmetic contact
lenses that can change the appearance of the wearer's eye.
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“Parents should be aware of the dangers
of purchasing cosmetic contact lenses that have not been properly
fitted by a licensed physician or optometrist. If the lenses are not
properly fitted, there is a higher chance of infection that can lead
to permanent damage to the cornea and vision loss,” said Grillo.
Cosmetic, or zero power, lenses are
popular among teens because the lenses can change the color and
appearance of the eyes. All contact lenses, including zero power,
are medical devices that can be legally prescribed only by a
licensed physician or optometrist.
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According to Grillo, DPR has worked
with local police and state's attorneys to shut down a handful of
vendors, including beauty supply and convenience stores, in Illinois
who were selling contact lenses to individuals without
prescriptions. In addition to possible criminal penalties, DPR has
authority to impose fines against the unlicensed practice of
medicine or optometry.
Individuals who have purchased contact
lenses without a prescription are encouraged to consult an eye care
professional if they have experienced any eye irritation. Those with
knowledge of the illegal sale of contact lenses may be reported to
the department online at
www.ildpr.com or by calling (312) 814-6910.
[Illinois
Department of Professional Regulation
news release] |
