Eye to Eye with Coronavirus

COVID 19 or Coronavirus disease is caused by highly transmissible severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

It can spread by direct contact with infected people mainly through airborne “respiratory droplets” produced when someone coughs or sneezes, like the flu virus. It can also spread by indirect contact with surfaces in the immediate environment or with objects used by the infected person. Eye transmission of the COVID-19 virus has also been reported through eye secretions, though the risk is low.

Common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, dry cough, tiredness, mild to severe respiratory illness. Most people have only mild symptoms but elderly patients and patients with other medical illnesses may develop more severe symptoms which can be fatal. Symptoms generally occur within 2-14 days of exposure to the Coronavirus.

Coronavirus and Eye

Initial studies have reported that 1-3 % of people infected with Coronavirus can have conjunctivitis which is also known as ‘Pinkeye’. Some of its common symptoms are

• Redness of Eye
• Discharge of Eye
• Ocular Irritation,
• Foreign Body Sensation
• Watering of Eyes
• Chemosis or Swelling in Eyes

These symptoms can rarely present as an initial manifestation of the Coronavirus disease. But It doesn’t necessarily mean that a person with pink eyes must be infected with coronavirus, so one need not panic. Conjunctivitis or Pink eye can be caused due to other viral or bacterial infections as well and sometimes it can be allergic too.

Eye Safety Measures during Corona Pandemic

• Practice safe hygiene and social distancing
• If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses for a while.
• Wearing glasses will add a layer of protection.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes.
• If you feel an urge to itch or rub your eye or even to adjust your glasses, use a tissue instead of fingers.
• Dry eyes can lead to more rubbing, so if you have dry eyes use artificial teardrops in routine or consult your doctor.
• If you need to touch your eyes for any reason like to administer eye medicine — wash your hands first with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• If you are a glaucoma patient and somehow your appointment is postponed, it is important to remain compliant with your medications.
• If you are running low on your eye medicines better to consult your doctor

Urgent eye issues in which you should consult your eye doctor as early as possible:

• Sudden loss of vision or decrease in vision
• Eye injury even if it appears minor
• Increase in floaters or flashes of light
• Eye pain or redness
• If you have macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy and you get regular eye injection.

For any COVID related inquiries pertaining to eyes please feel free to contact our COVID dedicated lines at the following numbers: