Contact lens wearers in 17 U.S. states have developed the fungal eye infection Fusarium keratitis, causing them pain and blurred vision.
Most of the victims were cleaning their contacts with "ReNu with MoistureLoc" eye solution. Stores have been removing this product from their shelves.
U.S. Shipments Stopped
The highest number of reported cases in the United States has been in Florida, with over 50 reported to date. Bausch & Lomb, which makes ReNu, has seen its stock price drop precipitously, even though tests have not confirmed that ReNu is the culprit. Even so, Bausch & Lomb has stopped U.S. shipments of the product.
Can Cause Blindness
Without an eye drop treatment that can last up to three months, Fusarium infection can scar the cornea and cause blindness. Soft contact lens wearers can protect themselves from Fusarium by washing their hands before touching their lenses.