Is Acanthamoeba keratitis contagious?

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare but serious eye infection caused by a microscopic organism called Acanthamoeba. It primarily affects the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, and can lead to severe pain, redness, blurred vision, and even vision loss if left untreated.

One of the common concerns regarding Acanthamoeba keratitis is whether it is contagious or not. The good news is that Acanthamoeba keratitis is not directly contagious from person to person. It is typically acquired from exposure to contaminated water sources, such as tap water, swimming pools, hot tubs, or even contact lens solutions.

The Acanthamoeba organism can enter the eye through various means, including improper contact lens use, using contaminated water to rinse contact lenses, or swimming or showering while wearing contact lenses. Once the organism enters the eye, it can cause an infection that leads to Acanthamoeba keratitis.

It is important to note that while Acanthamoeba keratitis itself is not contagious, proper precautions should be taken to prevent the infection. This includes practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses, using sterile contact lens solutions, and avoiding exposure to potentially contaminated water sources.

If you suspect you have Acanthamoeba keratitis or are experiencing symptoms such as eye pain, redness, or vision changes, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention from an eye care professional. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further damage to the cornea and preserve vision.