Is High Myopia contagious?

Is High Myopia Contagious?

High myopia, also known as severe nearsightedness, is a condition where a person has a significantly elongated eyeball, causing difficulty in focusing on distant objects. It is a common concern among individuals with myopia, as well as those who may come in close contact with them, to wonder if high myopia is contagious. However, it is important to clarify that high myopia is not contagious.

Myopia, including high myopia, is primarily caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The elongated shape of the eyeball in myopic individuals is typically determined by genetic predisposition. If one or both parents have myopia, there is an increased likelihood of their children developing myopia as well. However, this does not mean that myopia can be transmitted through direct contact or exposure.

Myopia is a refractive error that affects the focusing ability of the eye, resulting in blurred vision when looking at distant objects. It is not caused by a virus, bacteria, or any other infectious agent. Therefore, it cannot be transmitted from one person to another through physical contact, respiratory droplets, or any other means of transmission associated with contagious diseases.

While high myopia itself is not contagious, it is important to note that certain eye conditions or diseases may have similar symptoms to myopia and can be contagious. For example, conjunctivitis (commonly known as pink eye) is an eye infection that can cause redness, itching, and blurred vision. If someone with conjunctivitis comes into direct contact with another person's eye secretions, the infection can be transmitted. However, it is crucial to differentiate between contagious eye conditions and refractive errors like myopia.

Preventing Myopia Progression:

While high myopia itself is not contagious, it is important to focus on preventive measures to slow down its progression, especially in children. Myopia progression can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, prolonged near work (such as excessive screen time), and lack of outdoor activities.

To reduce the risk of myopia progression, it is recommended to:

• Encourage outdoor activities: Spending time outdoors, particularly in natural light, has been associated with a lower risk of myopia development and progression.


• Limit screen time: Excessive screen time, especially at a close distance, can contribute to myopia progression. It is important to take regular breaks and maintain a healthy distance from screens.


• Ensure proper lighting: Adequate lighting while reading or performing close-up tasks can help reduce eye strain and potentially slow down myopia progression.


• Regular eye check-ups: Routine eye examinations are essential to monitor any changes in vision and detect myopia progression at an early stage.

In conclusion, high myopia is not contagious. It is a refractive error caused by genetic and environmental factors, rather than an infectious disease. While it is important to be aware of contagious eye conditions, it is equally crucial to focus on preventive measures to slow down myopia progression. By following the recommended guidelines, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain good eye health and reduce the risk of myopia development or progression.