Coronavirus and your eyes
COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It’s caused by a type of Coronavirus. Symptoms are fever (at least 38°C), cough and shortness of breath. These symptoms may appear 2-10 days after a person has been infected.
Coronavirus can spread through the eyes
When a sick person coughs, sneezes or talks, virus particles may infect another person through their mouth, nose or eyes. Droplets of the virus may land on surfaces such as counter tops and door knobs, so it is important to wash your hands before touching your face or eating.
Coronavirus and conjunctivitis
Like any virus, COVID-19 can lead to inflammation of the eye- known as viral conjunctivitis. While it is thought to only occur in 1-3% of cases, like any conjunctivitis, it is important to practice good hygiene to avoid infecting others- so always wash your hands after touching your eyes or your tears.
Contact lenses or glasses?
If you are a contact lens wearer, you tend to touch your face and eyes more regularly so now would be a good time to wear your glasses more regularly. It would be a good idea to ensure your glasses are up to date so you can still enjoy clear vision. Furthermore, glasses or sunglasses may also add a layer of protection.
Eye drops
Ensure you have an adequate supply of eye drop medication such as glaucoma drops as it is important to continue with these drops on a daily basis and you don’t want to get caught short if you had to self-quarantine. Please don’t hesitate to phone or email us if you need a repeat prescription. Many pharmacies offer a delivery service.
Avoid eye rubbing
We all do this more often than we realise but try and become aware of this habit and avoid it whenever possible. If you need to rub your eyes, ensure your hands are washed first or use the edge of a tissue instead of your fingers.
Dry eyes and allergy can lead to more eye irritation so keep up with your dry eye drops and treatment and talk to us about prescription eye drops to control your allergy symptoms.
By taking some simple hygiene measures and being sensible if you are unwell, we can all get through this together and stay safe and healthy.