Infectious diseases

Latest news

The College has provided key information to help you identify cases and guidance on managing circumstances that are relevant to optometry practices.

Supplementary guidance

The College has provided information to help you identify of cases and guidance on managing circumstances that are relevant to optometry practices.

Guidance for Professional Practice

Infection control is concerned with two main areas. Firstly, transmission from person to person, and secondly, transmission via a contaminated object.

COVID-19 archives

Advice and guidance for optical professionals on COVID-19.

Read on for the answers to your COVID-19 questions, covering a range of topics from driving and HES referrals to PPE and tonometry.

We’ve been working with governments and eye health organisations across the UK to ensure that you have the all the latest news, information and regulations relating to optometry and COVID-19 in your nation.

Since our first update on 20 March 2020, right at the start of lockdown, we’ve been providing timely, relevant news, information and guidance that you can trust.

More on infectious diseases

The General Optical Council (GOC) sought views on how they can continue to support registrants and the optical sector throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many of you have been in touch to ask about the Covid-19 vaccination programme. All UK representative bodies are working together and will keep the sector up to date with developments.

Watch our video and read our FAQs for more information on eye care provision under the new national restrictions.

Yesterday, the Prime Minister and First Minister for Scotland announced new national restrictions to help tackle the rising number of coronavirus infections and ease pressure on NHS and related health

Today’s announcement will see more areas in England move to Tier 4 lockdown arrangements.

We explain how additional restrictions will affect optometrists working in Tier 4 areas.

We summarise the current evidence relating to the new variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus for optometrists.

We explain how the additional restrictions announced in Northern Ireland will affect optometrists.

We explain how the additional restrictions announced in Wales will affect optometrists.

Participate in the government-funded UK-REACH study to help understand why people from certain ethnic minorities are more likely to have severe COVID-19.

The College has been involved in discussions with NHSE to ensure optometrists are given access to COVID-19 vaccinations as early as possible.

Optical bodies have grouped together to recognise the efforts of the optical profession to provide the best possible care for patients throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Infection control is concerned with two main areas. Firstly, transmission from person to person, and secondly, transmission via a contaminated object.

We explain how the additional restrictions announced in Scotland will affect optometrists.

Clinical files: Do I need to wear a face mask in the staff room?

In line with the government’s new national restrictions in England, we have advised members that all practices remain open to provide services.

Update on optometric practice following the Government's announcement of new national restrictions in England

As the pandemic continues to affect people’s lives across the UK, interest in a viable vaccine is growing. The College's Director of Research, Michael Bowen looks at what guidance optometrists can offer patients on potential COVID-19 vaccines.

Mark Drakeford, First Minister for Wales, has announced additional restrictions from 6pm on Friday 23 October 2020 for two weeks.

We are aware of a petition regarding examination testing times during the pandemic. Read our statement.

College of Optometrists issues advice as part of National Eye Health Week

Clinical files: How can I safely use a visual field machine during the recovery phase of the pandemic?