5/17/2020 Update: There Is Low Risk Of COVID-19 Transmission Via Tears, New Study Demonstrates
The highest risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission is from air droplets liberated from an open air cough or sneeze. Handshaking remains a risk due to our frequent touching of surfaces which may have live virus, then touching our face. By now we all know that even if someone doesn’t show and signs of illness, they may carry the virus and infect others who are at greater risk.
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, appears in less than 1% of patients who have lab confirmed SARS-CoV-2 as a side effect of the virus in the body. Fortunately, the surface of the eye does not appear to contain the receptor cells that SARS-CoV-2 uses as the main entry point into the body, known as angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).* The lungs are targeted by this virus because they do have a high concentration of ACE2 receptors.
Washing hands frequently, avoiding touching the eyes and face, as well as covering the nose and mouth face mask, and respecting physical distancing are still the best way to prevent spread of SARS-CoV-2.
*Lange C, Wolf J, Auw-Haedrich C, et al. Expression of the COVID-19 receptor ACE2 in the human conjunctiva. J Med Virol. 2020 May 6.
Dr. Petrou’s Contact Lens Wear Advice
If you wear contacts, I strongly recommend the most hygienic lens option of daily disposable contact lenses. Ask about being fitted with single use contacts at your next exam. We are scheduling appointments at this time with updated office protocols for disinfection and physics distancing.
If you already wear single use contacts and are running low, remember to never reuse them. Instead you may wear your glasses or ask us for free shipping of contacts to your home.
If you wear multi use contact lenses, wash your hands before handling your contact lenses and contact lens case. The best way to disinfect your contacts is to use a 3% hydrogen peroxide contact lens cleaning and disinfectant solution, such as Clear Care. Remember to carefully follow the directions carefully to avoid accidental irritation to eyes as the peroxide cannot be placed directly on the eye but has to be neutralized with the use of the special case and disc provided within each package.
