SARS-CoV-2 on the ocular surface: is it truly a novel transmission route? #MMPMID32788324
Chen X; Yu H; Mei T; Chen B; Chen L; Li S; Zhang X; Sun X
Br J Ophthalmol 2021[Sep]; 105 (9): 1190-1195 PMID32788324show ga
Since December 2019, the novel COVID-19 outbreak has spread rapidly around the globe and infected millions of people. Although the major transmission route of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is considered to be airborne droplets and close contact, the ocular transmission route has been reported with great concern. The current work summarises the characteristics of SARS-CoV-2, the ocular distribution of the major SARS-CoV-2 binding protein, and the experimental and clinical evidence of the ocular transmission route. Although it seems that the likelihood of the ocular surface being an infection gateway is low, SARS-CoV-2 infection or transmission via the ocular surface may cause conjunctivitis and other ocular discomfort. Therefore, good eye protection is an essential safeguard procedure, especially for medical staff.