With the increasing popularity of contact lenses being used among the eye glasses wearers, it has seen a significant growth in the sales of contact lens. As far as we are aware of the benefits we can receive by wearing contact lens, it is still prudent to safeguard ourselves from falling into the traps of unscrupulous suppliers selling counterfeit contact lens for massive profits.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is alerting members of the public on its detection of counterfeit contact lenses being sold in local optical shops because of public health and safety concerns. These counterfeit contact lenses are printed with established brands and have look-alike packaging design as that of the authentic ones. At times, it may be difficult to differentiate between the authentic and the counterfeit ones.
The danger of wearing counterfeit contact lenses are :
Danger 1
The quality and safety of counterfeit health products cannot be vouched for as their manufacturing processes and conditions are unknown.
Danger 2
The poor quality and their deficient in many aspects will have diverse negative impact on our eyes resulting in eye infections, corneal ulcers (open sores in the outer layer of the eye) and blindness.
Danger 3
The solution which the contact lenses were packed in can be contaminated with harmful bacteria causing eye infections.
Danger 4
The counterfeit lenses in general have lower water content and were thicker in the centre of the lens. These defects minimize oxygen penetration to the eye through the contact lenses. The lack of oxygen supply to the eye and several other defects found in the counterfeit lenses can give rise to severe eye irritation, discomfort and pain, in addition to the risk of eye infections.
In any event if you suspect that you are being sold counterfeit contact lens, you can perform the following action :
Action 1
Check the contact lens boxes for wrong typographical errors in the outer packaging and blister pack.
Action 2
Stop using the contact lens.
Action 3
Consult a doctor for treatment if you suffer from any adverse reactions such as severe eye irritation, redness, blurred vision, pain, light sensitivity, unusual discomfort.
Action 4
Check with HSA on your suspicion.
HSA takes a serious view on the dealing of counterfeit health products. The public trusts owners of optical shops and registered optometrists/opticians which are part of the legitimate supply chain of eyecare services and products. HSA will not hesitate to take punitive action against sellers who peddle counterfeit products.”.
Optical shop owners and retailers are strongly reminded that they should not sell or distribute counterfeit contact lenses or products. Any persons found supplying, counterfeit medical devices are liable to a penalty of $100,000 and/or a jail term of up to 3 years if convicted.
