Detection of Bacterial Contamination on Contact Lenses from the Flea Market

Abstract

The contact lenses are usable instead of spectacles for the benefits of sports, entertainment and cosmetic  result from the different eye colour change. Contact lenses can cause irritation of the eyes such as dryness,  conjunctivitis, inflammation and even infections. Bacterial contamination is the most common causes. This  survey aimed to detect bacterial contamination on contact lenses and check the packing standard by the  international standard organization (ISO 11978:2000 (E) and the ministry of Public Health, item contact lens.  Contact lenses samples were collected from three flea markets including Phitsanulok night bazaar market,  Naresuan University market and Wat Chan walking street market. There were 15 samples collected from five shops; three brands from each shop. The results showed that two brands of contact lenses (13.3%) from  Phitsanulok night bazaar and Naresuan University flea market were contaminated by Micrococcus spp. and  Bacillus spp.respectively. For ISO 11978:2000 (E) and notification of the Ministry of Public Health of quality  product of contact lenses, the results showed that three brands (20.0%) from Phitsanulok night bazaar  market were not met the standard. This study is the preliminary results of the prevalence of bacterial  contamination of contact lenses and the quality of contact lenses products in flea market