Role of Eyes and Eyes Protection Amidst SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 pandemic has infected millions of people. The conjunctival epithelium is easily exposed to infectious droplets and body fluids making eyes a potential route and reservoir of the infection. The CD147 and ACE2 receptor has been demonstrated in ocular su...
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
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Nepal Medical Association
2021-02-01
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| Series: | Journal of Nepal Medical Association |
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| Online Access: | http://jnma.com.np/jnma/index.php/jnma/article/view/5634 |
| Summary: | Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 pandemic has infected millions of people. The
conjunctival epithelium is easily exposed to infectious droplets and body fluids making eyes a
potential route and reservoir of the infection. The CD147 and ACE2 receptor has been demonstrated
in ocular surface cells, which implies that these cells may facilitate as a portal of entry for transmission
of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. Despite low viral load in tears and conjunctival
swab, the negative RT-PCR results cannot exclude the possibility of the presence of Severe Acute
Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in ocular secretions. Pathogens might be transported by
constant tear flow through the lacrimal duct system to the respiratory tract causing infection. Eyes
are unlikely to be the main transmission route, however, their role in the transmission of Severe
Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 cannot be overlooked. Therefore, proper eye protection
should be instituted while attending Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 positive
individuals, especially by health professionals.
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| ISSN: | 0028-2715 1815-672X |