Holidaymakers 'risk going blind' from 'harmless' accessory

NewsUK NewsAdvice has been given11:23, 06 Aug 2026Updated 11:24, 06 Aug 2026An expert is warning summer holiday goers that they risk going blind from one seemingly harmless travel accessory - an eye mask. The popular in-flight accessory can harbour harmful bacteria, oils and make-up residue, which can be rubbed directly into passengers' eyes while they sleep.‌As two million Brits are set to jet off this summer, experts say the season is a peak danger season for eye infections, some of which can cause long-term vision loss if untreated. And the risk is even higher for contact lens wearers. When combined with eyes and lenses drying out in aeroplane cabin conditions, the chance of infection soars.‌Tina Patel, contact lens optician at Feel Good Contacts, said: "Opticians tend to see an increas