Pink eye not ruled out as possible Covid-19 indicator
“Just because someone has pink eye, it doesn’t mean they’re infected with the coronavirus.”
Conjunctivitis, also commonly referred to as ‘pink eye’, was recently identified as an unlikely, but possible indicator for the deadly Covid-19 virus.
This was according to research referenced by medical insurance company Affinity Health.
“According to current data, conjunctivitis doesn’t appear to be a standalone symptom of Covid-19,” CEO Murray Hewlett said.
“Just because someone has pink eye, it doesn’t mean they are infected with the coronavirus.”
In a statement, the company said according to disease experts Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, viruses were the most common cause of conjunctivitis.
“It’s therefore not surprising that Covid-19, a novel coronavirus strain, could lead to symptoms similar to conjunctivitis.”
Pink eye is a condition indicated by an acute inflammation of the eye, which happened when the white part of the eyes and the inside of eyelids became red, itchy and swollen.
“It usually means that your eye has been infected by chemical irritants and allergens spread through the air.”
The statement added that WebMD doctors, however, believed that only a small percentage of people with Covid-19 would experience conjunctivitis.
However, people were urged to watch out for any other signs of illness which could indicate “something more sinister” while treating the condition with ointments that relieved symptoms over the period of a week or two.
“If you have any symptoms of a new cough, fever or shortness of breath, call your healthcare provider to discuss whether you should be tested for Covid-19,” Hewlett said.
“If someone with Covid-19 is having trouble breathing or has other concerning symptoms, they should seek medical help.”
Common Covid-19 symptoms are:
– Fever
– Dry cough
– Fatigue
– Coughing up slime (producing sputum in the lungs)
– Shortness of breath
– Sore throat
– Headache
– Nasal congestion
– Muscle or joint ache or pain
– Body chills
– Loss of taste or smell
Government recommended Covid-19 preventative measures are:
– Keep your hands germ-free by washing them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
– Use a hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water is unavailable
– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
– Avoid people who have the coronavirus or have been in contact with someone who has
– Practice social distancing by keeping at least one metre from other people
– Avoid crowded areas and staying at home as much as possible
– Always cover your mouth and nose with a proper-fitting face mask in public.
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