Role of Eyes and Eyes Protection Amidst SARS-CoV-2 Infection

• Main Author: Bibechan Thapa
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Nepal Medical Association 2021-02-01
• Series: Journal of Nepal Medical Association
• Subjects: eye protection; route of transmission; SARS-CoV-2
• Online Access: http://jnma.com.np/jnma/index.php/jnma/article/view/5634

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.