A new strain of SARS-CoV-2 “Arcturus” causes conjunctivitis more often than its predecessors, but it is impossible to distinguish it from other infectious conjunctivitis. Andrey Pozdnyakov, an infectious disease specialist, Ph.D., chief physician of the clinical diagnostic laboratory of INVITRO-Siberia LLC, spoke about this.
“In India, the Arcturus subspecies, also known as XBB.1.16, manifested with the classic symptoms of SARS. In Europe they often talk about the development of conjunctivitis, but in general it is too early to say that this symptom prevails when infected with a new variant of the coronavirus. ”the doctor explained.
Conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria, and chemicals. With the coronavirus, the classic symptoms of infectious conjunctivitis develop, so it is almost impossible to distinguish it.
For treatment, the doctor recommended the use of special eye drops that reduce the sensation of foreign body and pain in the eyes. Antiviral thalmoferon drops can also be used. If the symptoms are severe and do not go away within a few days, it is better to consult an ophthalmologist.
“It is recommended to avoid crowded places and close contact, to maintain distance if possible, to wash hands and to follow other personal hygiene rules. It is recommended to wear a mask when in contact with a potentially infected person or when in a place where potentially infected people are present, for example, in any medical facility, ”the doctor said.
Pozdnyakov also stated that it does not make sense to constantly wear a mask. As for vaccinations, the doctor believes that if a person is not yet sick and has not been vaccinated, it is no longer recommended to be vaccinated at this time. The exception is people in risk groups, including those with weakened immune systems.