Streptococci is most known to cause eye infections, however, E. coli which spreads to the eye can be as equally infectious.

One eye infection that can be caused by these bacteria is bacterial conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis is a relatively common eye infection and there are typically three types, viral, allergic, and bacterial. E. coli and streptococci being bacteria could cause the latter, the symptoms of which include redness, irritation, discharge, and crusting of the eyelids.

Luckily, conjunctivitis is mostly self-limiting, meaning it will resolve independently. However, sufferers of bacterial conjunctivitis may need to resort to antibiotic eye drops if symptoms persist. Self-care includes cleaning the eye using a clean cotton pad dipped in tepid boiled water and wiping once in a singular motion, avoiding contact with the other eye. Always wash your hands and refrain from sharing towels to prevent the spread.

In more severe cases especially when the cornea is compromised due to injury or trauma (such as an abrasion or scratch), E. coli and streptococci can cause corneal infections including ulcers. This can result in significant pain, blurred vision, and potential scarring of the cornea. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical advice, to prevent any long-term complications.

Lastly there is Endophthalmitis, a rare inflammation of the intraocular structures of the eye. Most commonly present following surgical complications of the eye, or through trauma, this rare condition has the potential to cause irreversible sight loss if not seen to immediately.

Most of these issues can be avoided by being sure to follow best hygiene practices when travelling on any public transport, such as:

Carrying hand sanitiser: This can help eradicate lingering bacteria on the skin, ensuring it won’t make its way into your eye, especially if you accidentally rub your eyes.
Not doing makeup while travelling: For many, makeup application becomes a subconscious activity, and for eye makeup this can involve using fingers to wipe, pull and smudge around the eyes. Either wait until you’re at your destination to apply makeup or sacrifice a bit of your sleep and get up earlier to protect your eyes in the long run. In addition, all it takes is someone to bump into you on the tube whilst you’re applying make-up to end up with a corneal abrasion (corneal scratch).
Switch to daily contact lenses: Contact lens wearers are at an increased risk of spreading bacteria through inserting and removing lenses. Switching to daily contact lenses minimises this risk through replacing them daily. Be sure though to always wash your hands with mild soap thoroughly before changing your contact lenses.

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Makeup station: Hygiene on your London commute