Scientists have reported a new sign of coronavirus infection — conjunctivitis. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has already warned about this.
A new symptom of coronavirus
The data cited by Chinese experts suggest that inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye from the very beginning of the epidemic manifested itself as one of the signs of coronavirus disease. At first, this sign of COVID-19 was considered secondary, but at the moment it is more and more often manifested in infected people. Now we can already say that conjunctivitis is a suspicion of infection with coronavirus. However, do not forget that with COVID-19 infection, signs of inflammation of the conjunctiva are not the only ones.
Why do we need protective glasses for doctors?
Biological fluids, including a tear, are a source of viral infection, and the mucous membranes of the eye represent a possible entry gate for infection. Upon contact with the conjunctiva of the eyes of contaminated fingers, or of an infected person being separated — when coughing, sneezing or talking at a distance closer than 2 meters, the risk of the virus entering the body increases. Therefore, face shields are now needed, especially for doctors.
Recommendations for patients
Strictly observe the rules of personal hygiene in the family: use a separate towel, only your own bedding, separate dishes. Towels and bedding should be changed at least twice a week. It is strictly forbidden touching the eyelids and eyes! We recommend washing your face only after thoroughly washing your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Patients who constantly use eye drops, for example, for glaucoma, should wash their hands thoroughly with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after each drop applying procedure. Similarly, hands should be handled by those who are dripping drops to another person. Eye drops, ointments, gels, pipettes, glass sticks for laying ointments should be strictly individual use.
In conclusion, we want to emphasize once again: take care of your eyes! With the spread of coronavirus, they have recently become the most vulnerable to infection by the mucous membrane.
Picture Credit: Freepik