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Although it may seem common sense to most that sharing a toothbrush is not particularly hygienic, it would appear that some don't apply the same concept to the sharing of contact lenses and the hygiene risks that it would bring.
Having recently heard many cases of contact lens wearers not following manufacturers recommendations regarding the care, use and implementation of their lenses, Dr Nagendra Shah of Bombay Hospital has also highlighted the sharing of contacts between friends as simply another way to transmit infections and cause them. Not only does the direct contact and mix of bodily fluids occur, but the lenses themselves should also be properly fitted and prescribed on a patient by patient basis as incorrectly fitting lenses can themselves lead to discomfort and infection. The doctor stated that wearers should always keep in mind that the contact lens is a foreign body and as such, requires cleaning correctly and sterilisation before use. The storing of the lens is also vitally important to ensure that it remains usable and clean.
The area of some concern is that of cosmetic contact lenses, with many consumers not being seen by optical professionals, instead purchasing them without proper fitting and prescription which in turn has lead to trading standards officials removing products from stores where they are not licensed to sell them legally, in most cases simply ignorant to eye health laws as opposed to willfully breaking them. As they are sold as cosmetic items, many people simply don't realise the health risks using and sharing will bring.