High resolution camera system with a relay to VR goggle system, would be capable of protecting a users eyes from direct exposure. The camera hardware is still vulnerable.
Possibly a cold plasma sheath absorbent to the weapons operating frequency might offer a protective dispersion effect for an optics system. A good spot to begin to dig for an answer.
I agree.
Someone could actually develop a protective helmet for troops who are near the source and who ma be victims of laser bounce from reflective objects and water.Such a device should likely have a hardened polished mirror surface.