Vision Health Tips During Flu Season

Vision Health Tips During Flu Season

Flu season: that time of year when tissues multiply like snowflakes, hand sanitizer becomes a fashion accessory, and everyone suddenly develops an interest in soup. While most people focus on fevers and coughs, few realize that flu season can also affect eye health. At the University Optometric Center, we like to think of your eyes as small, exquisite windows—worth keeping sparkling even when everything else feels foggy.

Wash, Blink, Repeat

Handwashing may be the unsung hero of flu prevention, but it also protects your eyes. Viruses are notorious hitchhikers, traveling from fingers to eyelids faster than you can say “achoo.” Keeping hands clean reduces the risk of viral conjunctivitis (a fancy name for pink eye), which often rides shotgun with seasonal illnesses.

Hydrate for Clarity

Between fevers, tissues, and heating systems, dehydration sneaks up easily. Your eyes, delicate as they are, thrive on adequate moisture. Drinking water and using preservative-free artificial tears can help maintain comfort and clarity, sparing you from that dry, scratchy feeling that makes even reading a textbook unbearable.

Don’t Share, Even if You Care

Yes, we know—sharing is kind. But during flu season, swapping pillows, towels, or even makeup brushes is essentially sending an engraved invitation to germs. Your future self will thank you for keeping personal items, well, personal.

Rest Is a Prescription Too

It’s tempting to cram in assignments or binge-watch a series while under the weather. Yet sleep is not just for recovery—it also supports healthy tear production and reduces eye strain. Consider it a medical excuse for guilt-free naps.

See Us if Things Look Blurry

If flu season leaves your vision foggy or your eyes unusually irritated, don’t ignore it. Sometimes the flu can exacerbate underlying conditions. A quick visit ensures your eyes get the care they deserve.

At the University Optometric Center, we believe flu season doesn’t have to be a blur. With a dash of caution and a touch of rest, your eyes can stay as bright as winter’s first snow.