eye exams
Professor Dr. Salwa bint Abdullah Fahad Al-Hazaa, a former member of the Shura Council and a senior consultant in ophthalmology, confirmed the recommendations of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), that all ophthalmologists should stop routine eye examination in outpatient and surgical clinics immediately, except for urgent or emergency care For the eyes.
This is important information regarding eye diseases. Concerning the severe new corona virus The highly contagious virus can cause an acute respiratory disease known as COVID-19.
The virus particles were found in the eye secretions of infected patients, which indicates that the virus can infect the conjunctiva.
Many reports indicate that the virus can cause conjunctivitis, and it cannot be distinguished from other viral causes that can harm the eye, and therefore the virus can be transmitted through contact with aerosols of the conjunctiva.
Therefore, we warn against patients who see ophthalmologists due to conjunctivitis and also suffer from fever and respiratory symptoms, including coughing and shortness of breath, and who have recently traveled internationally, especially to areas with known outbreaks (China, Iran, Italy and South Korea, or to certain areas within USA), or family members who have recently returned from one of these areas, as this could represent cases of COVID- 19.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends protecting the mouth, nose and eyes when caring for patients who may have SARS-CoV-2 infection.
It is recommended that the same alcohol-based disinfectants and bleach be used to disinfect ophthalmic instruments and office furniture, before and after every eye patient To prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between patients.
