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Eclipse warnings ignored

Eye doctors in Victoria, one of the best spots in Canada to view Monday's eclipse, say they're fielding calls from people who ignored advice and looked at the sun.

Despite numerous warnings, some people obviously couldn't resist the urge to gaze at the spectacle.

Several optometrists report multiple calls about eye pain after watching the eclipse without protection.

“I had patients calling after looking at it for about a minute or so,” Dr. Balraj Sharma told CTV.

Warnings abounded leading up to the event that even a quick glance could cause permanent eye damage.

“If they’re having an after-image after the fact and it’s not going away, it’s really important that they get their eyes checked,” said Sharma. “It’s not reversible, so it’s something that if it did happen, it’s definitely going to stay there.”

Anyone noticing eye pain or a blind spot is urged to contact an eye doctor.

– with files from CTV Vancouver Island



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