Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
 CDC Home Search Health Topics A-Z

CDC Media Relations
Media Home | Contact Us
US Department of Health and Human Services logo and link

Media Relations Links
• About Us
• Media Contact
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Media Site Map

CDC News
• Press Release Library
• Transcripts
• MMWR Summaries
• B-Roll Footage
• Upcoming Events

Related Links
• Centers at CDC
• Data and Statistics
• Health Topics A-Z
• Image Library
• Publications, Software and Other Products
• Global Health Odyssey
Find your state or local health department
HHS News
National Health Observances
Visit the FirstGov Web Site
Div. of Media Relations
1600 Clifton Road
MS D-14
Atlanta, GA 30333
(404) 639-3286
Fax (404) 639-7394

 

For Immediate Release
May 12, 2006
Contact: CDC Media Relations
(404)-639-3286

Fusarium Keratitis Update

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is continuing its investigation on the multi-state outbreak of Fusarium keratitis that may be associated with contact lens use. 

As of May 12, 2006, CDC has received reports of 122 confirmed cases, 15 possible cases and 60 cases still under investigation from 33 U.S. states and territories. 75 reports include insufficient evidence to classify them as cases or carry other non-Fusarium diagnoses.  States or territories with at least 1 confirmed or possible case include: AR, AZ, CA, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, NC, ND, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, PR, TN, TX and VT.  States where all cases are currently under investigation include: IN, MN, MS, NV, OR, RI, and VA.  Recent increases in confirmed cases largely reflect reclassification of existing reports that had been under investigation; reports to CDC are continually being investigated as they are identified.

The risk of getting fungal keratitis from contact lenses remains extremely low. Contact lens wearers who experience unusual redness, pain, tearing, light sensitivity, blurry vision, discharge or swelling should consult their doctor immediately.

CDC is continuing its investigation into identifying whether there are specific factors that may have placed people at risk for developing fungal keratitis, including hygiene practices, overnight contact lens wear and specific solutions used. The CDC will provide more information as it becomes available.

For more information on fungal keratitis and advice to doctors and consumers, please visit

CDC's General Information about Fusarium Keratitis or FDA's Contact Lenses and Eye Infection


May 9, 2006 Update

May 5, 2006 Update



Media Home Page | Accessibility | Privacy Policy | Contact Us
CDC Home | Search | Health Topics A-Z

This page last updated May 12, 2008
URL: http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/r060512.htm

United States Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Office of Communication
Division of Media Relations