Controversies regarding mask usage in ophthalmic units in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 pandemic

Comment on: “Controversies regarding mask usage in ophthalmic units in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 pandemic”

“…We read with interest the article by Naveed et al [1] on controversies regarding mask usage in ophthalmic units during the COVID-19 pandemic. We agree that offering patients a surgical face mask will lower the risk of them transmitting infection.…”

Policy recommendations in response to the resurgence of COVID-19 cases for institutional medical practice from an ophthalmic perspective

“…This has been made complicated by differing recommendations by government agencies worldwide and practices by ophthalmology colleagues globally. 12 Although discussions were had regarding the use of N95 respirators on a regular basis, use of surgical masks for all healthcare workers facing patients was decided upon given the limited duration of exposure to patients by staff, and considerations regarding rationing of PPE supplies. Given considerations regarding aerosolization, air puff tonometry was stopped and aerosol-generating procedures were kept to a minimum.…”

Addressing post-operative Mask-Associated Dry Eye (MADE)

“…COVID-19 has resulted in public health legislation in the UK mandating the wearing of facemasks in all healthcare settings by both patients and hospital staff to try and reduce viral spread [1]. This recommendation has particular relevance to a 'close proximity' specialty like ophthalmology [1][2][3].…”

“…COVID-19 has resulted in public health legislation in the UK mandating the wearing of facemasks in all healthcare settings by both patients and hospital staff to try and reduce viral spread [1]. This recommendation has particular relevance to a 'close proximity' specialty like ophthalmology [1][2][3]. Previous publications have discussed the uncertain clinical significance from the potential reduction in microbiological particles onto the surgical field when ophthalmic surgeons wear surgical masks intraoperatively, yet COVID-19 advice has now extended those principles to patients [3].…”