Solar eclipse. Photo: Shutterstock The World Health Organization (WHO) is reminding the public to take precautions when watching a solar eclipse, warning that improper viewing can cause serious and potentially permanent eye damage.
The health agency advises people to use solar eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard throughout the viewing period. Regular sunglasses are not a safe substitute.
The warning is particularly relevant as millions of people prepare to watch upcoming eclipse events, with travelers expected to visit destinations along the path of visibility or even watch it from an airplane .
The WHO recommends checking eclipse glasses and viewers for damage before use and closely supervising children while they watch the event.
The organization also warns against using improvised viewing methods. These include sunglasses, smartphone cameras, X-rays and other makeshift filters that are not designed for direct solar viewing.
People should also avoid looking at the Sun through an unfiltered camera or telescope, even if they are wearing eclipse glasses. The concentrated sunlight passing through optical equipment can cause severe eye injury.
The WHO further advises viewers not to remove their protective glasses or lenses while looking at the eclipse .
For travelers planning to watch an eclipse abroad , proper eye protection should therefore be considered an essential part of their preparations, alongside checking the local viewing conditions and official safety guidance.
The warning comes as interest in eclipse tourism continues to grow, with major astronomical events drawing visitors to locations offering favorable views.
Anyone who experiences changes in vision after viewing an eclipse should seek immediate advice from an eye care professional, according to the WHO.