Could eye protection be as effective as face coverings in helping to prevent the spread of the coronavirus? Although it’s not clear whether someone can become ill from exposure to the coronavirus in their eyes, recent studies have shown that Covid-19 can be present on the surface of the eye, and because the eye has direct communication to the nasal passages via the nasolacrimal, or tear duct, the virus has access to the respiratory system. These new findings add to a body of evidence that the eye can be a source of both transmission and infection in both symptomatic and asymptomatic carriers. As studies undergo further review, experts advise that eye protection that shields against droplets may be prudent. Read the scientific abstract of this study at https://bit.ly/2OZKrsc.
