Fungal Eye Infections Risk & Prevention

Who gets fungal eye infections?

Anyone can get a fungal eye infection. These infections usually are linked to one of these situations:^1,2

• Eye injury, particularly with plant material (for example, thorns or sticks)
• Eye surgery (such as corneal transplant surgery or cataract surgery)
• Chronic eye disease involving the surface of the eye
• Wearing contact lenses
• Exposure to contaminated medical products that come in contact with the eye
• Fungal bloodstream infection (like candidemia)

Also, people who have diabetes, weakened immune system, or use corticosteroids may be more likely to develop fungal eye infections than other people.^3,4

How can I prevent a fungal eye infection?

• If you’re a farm worker or work often with plant materials, wear protective eyewear to help prevent an eye injury.
• People who wear contact lenses should should care for their lenses properly.  For contact lens care tips, please visit CDC’s Healthy Contact Lens Wear and Care webpage.