Eye in COVID-19: A Brief Review

10.36351/pjo.v36i3.1040

Abstract

This is a brief review covering the currently available literature on ocular manifestations of COVID-19, and
prevention strategies for ophthalmologists. A literature search was carried out of Pubmed, Google Scholar and
WHO database of publications on COVID. Keywords used in the search were eye, ocular manifestations,
ophthalmology, COVID-19, nCoV-2019, and coronavirus disease. All available articles were reviewed and those
pertinent to the study topic were included. Considering the dearth of information available, ophthalmology journals were also searched separately for relevant articles. Major ocular manifestation of COVID reported in literature is red eye, which usually presents before the onset of respiratory symptoms. Since the eye can be a possible transmission route for SARS-CoV-2, infection control measures should be undertaken by ophthalmologists, including use of personal protection equipment and eye/face covering. A framework for structuring ophthalmological services during the COVID pandemic is also presented in this review.