Increasing Incidence of Contact Lens Related Fungal Corneal Infections (Update 3)

21 Feb 2006

Investigations are still ongoing on the cause of the recent reported incidence of contact lens related fungal corneal infections. As a precautionary measure, Bausch & Lomb (S) Pte Ltd (B & L) has voluntarily suspended sales of its ReNu multipurpose solution, and is cooperating with the Ministry of Health and Health Science Authority in the investigations.

In response to the spike of cases in January 2006, MOH had initiated active case finding of fungal corneal infections that has occurred since 2005. As of 20th Feb 2006, MOH has found 39 cases of fungal corneal infection (which tested positive for Fusarium) with a history of contact lens use.

Out of the 39 cases, 34 said that they had used ReNu, four were unsure of the brand of contact lens solution they used and one other had used a different brand.

The breakdown of cases notified by healthcare institutions is as follows:

Majority (92%) of the 39 cases started developing infection in the second half of last year (2005) onwards. There are 20 males and 19 females. Most (74.4%) of the cases comprised teenagers and young adults. Half (48.7%) of all the cases were in the 15-24 years age group while an additional quarter (25.6%) were aged 25-34 years.

In view of the potentially serious adverse visual consequences of fungal corneal infection, the Ministry of Health strongly advises all contact lens users as a precautionary measure to discontinue the use of B & L ReNu multipurpose contact lens solution for the time being, until the causes behind this recent increase in infections can be more clearly ascertained. B & L will advise consumers on what to do with existing stocks of their product.

In the meanwhile, contact lens users are advised to practise proper contact lens care as recommended by their contact lens practitioners (please see key points at Annex). For those who have experienced any symptoms of infection such as redness of eyes or pain or itchiness, they should consult a doctor immediately.

We will keep the public informed of any further developments.

Annex: Proper Use of Contact Lens

• Practise proper contact lens cleaning and care regimes. Lenses must be rubbed with the fingers and rinsed thoroughly before soaking overnight in a multi-purpose solution.

• Disposable contact lenses must not be used beyond their recommended disposal period.

• The multi-purpose solution in the lens storage case must be changed everyday even if the lenses are not used daily.

• Contact lens storage cases should be replaced at least every three months.

• Users should stop wearing the lenses if they develop any redness, blurring of vision or pain of the eye and to seek consultation with a doctor or contact lens practitioner.