Your eyes, like your nose and mouth, serve as an entry point for the coronavirus that has been wreaking havoc globally. Recent studies from China have indicated that the virus can infiltrate the conjunctiva, the clear layer that covers the front of your eye and inside of your eyelids. This revelation highlights the significance of maintaining proper eye hygiene and protection during the pandemic.
The coronavirus spreads primarily through droplets expelled when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. While these droplets commonly enter through the nose or mouth, they can also penetrate through the eyes. The ocular surface and eyelids are particularly susceptible to contamination and proliferation of the coronavirus. The virus can also be transmitted by touching fluid from an infected person’s eyes or objects that have come into contact with the fluid. Therefore, it is crucial to take good care of your eyes to minimize the risk of infection.
Many patients with the coronavirus have shown symptoms in their eyes, similar to those of conjunctivitis, also known as ‘Red Eyes’. Conjunctivitis, which is inflammation and swelling of the conjunctiva, is commonly associated with respiratory viruses. Symptoms include redness, watering, irritation, pain, swelling, discharge, and sensitivity to light. However, conjunctivitis alone does not necessarily indicate a coronavirus infection as it can also be caused by allergies, other infections, or exposure to chemicals. If you experience symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or headache along with eye-related symptoms, it is advisable to get tested for coronavirus.
To keep your eyes safe during this pandemic, consider the following steps:
1. Maintain Eye Hygiene: Wash your eyes with clean water twice a day and avoid touching them with dirty hands or clothes to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Substitute Contact Lenses for Glasses: Wearing glasses instead of contact lenses can limit the frequency of touching your eyes and offer additional protection against the virus.
3. Refrain from Rubbing Your Eyes: If your eyes feel itchy, avoid rubbing them. If you must touch them, use a clean tissue and not your fingers. You can also use clean water or moisturizing drops to alleviate the itchiness.
4. Wear Sunglasses or Goggles: These can help shield your eyes from respiratory droplets while you are outdoors and discourage you from touching your eyes.
5. Stock Up On Medications: Ensure you have an ample supply of eye drops and other essential prescribed medicines.
6. Consult Your Doctor: If you notice any eye-related symptoms, reach out to your doctor for a consultation.
The World Health Organization has recommended various measures to minimize the risk of contracting the infection:
1. Regularly wash your hands with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer.
2. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, with unwashed hands.
3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
4. Wear a quality face mask whenever you step outside your home.
5. Maintain physical and social distance by staying at home as much as possible and avoiding close contact with others.
6. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home.
Stay safe and remember, prevention is better than cure!
For more information regarding eye care and developments, feel free to visit my website https://shankarnetrika.com/ or contact me, Dr. Navin Kumar Gupta, at 9920044620 or 24702640. My Eye Centre, Shankar Netrika Eye Centre, is located at G. D. Ambekar Marg, Kalachowky, Cotton Green, Mumbai.
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