Coronavirus: Can COVID-19 spread through tears? Here are a few ways to keep your eyes safe

 (Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)

01 Can coronavirus spread through tears?

We know that COVID-19 is a highly transmissible disease of the upper respiratory system that spreads when someone inhales a droplet expelled by an infected person. However, with the virus mutating and evolving, there are still a lot of mysteries that remain unsolved about the transmission of the newer strain of the SARS-COV-2 virus. While there has always been speculative studies about a possible means of the virus spreading through bodily fluids, newer studies have actually hinted that it may actually be possible. One such study, carried out by Amritsar's Government Medical College has found out that the tears of the infected COVID patients have the potential to transmit the virus to a healthy person.

02 What have the researchers found?

Viral transmission through bodily fluids has always remained a remote possibility. According to new research, experts have now found that from a given sample database collected and tested for COVID transmission, about 17.5 per cent was transmitted through tears. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of viruses in tears of the infected patients even if they do not show any ocular manifestation.

A similar study, published in the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology revealed that infectious viruses can be present in tears with or without ocular involvement.

Based on these new findings, experts have also suggested that there could be a newer means of COVID transmission to be careful of, and opticians, ophthalmologists, and people working in personal care sectors like salons and beauticians can be at a higher risk of infection via fluid secreted from the eyes.

03 How can tear droplets act as carriers of the virus?

While there's only few research which has indicated the transmission of coronavirus through tears, there have been multiple studies published through the years, which have pointed out that in fact, different kinds of viruses could be present in our eyes. Experts suggest that the clear tissue that covers the white area of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid can be infected by viruses associated with the common cold and herpes. That happens because the eyes are directly exposed when to the droplets produced while coughing, sneezing or speaking. Besides, most people have the habit of rubbing and touching their eyes. This can be a valid explanation of the presence of coronavirus in the tears of an infected person.

04 How can COVID spread through the eyes?

Coronavirus can spread through the eyes in the same manner as it spreads through respiratory droplets. Touching the tears of an infected person or touching the surface where the droplet has landed make you prone to infection. Even touching your eyes after touching a surface with a virus on it can increase the risk of infection.

Although conjunctivitis (red eyes) is a prominent symptom of the COVID-19 infection, it is rare. Not everyone infected with the virus develops this symptom so it is necessary to keep oneself protected. Even if the infected person does not have pink eyes, he/she may spread the virus to a healthy person.

05 Here's what you can do to stay safe

It is now proved that coronavirus can spread to the other person through tears, however, studies also suggest that the risk of transmission is extremely low. The best thing to do in such a case is to practise some healthy hygiene methods to stay safe. Below are some small steps you can take to reduce the risk:

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing.

Do not rub your eyes when infected with COVID-19.

If you are using a tissue when sneezing, throw it immediately.

Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds after touching any surface and before touching your face or eating.

If soap and water are not available, clean your hands with a hand sanitiser that contains at least 70 per cent alcohol.

Avoid coming in close contact with people who are sick.

Wear a mask in public settings and when around people not living in their household.