The SARS-CoV-2 RNA virus can infect a human through the conjunctiva. The ocular surface can also serve as a reservoir for replication and transmission of the disease to others. These facts affect practicing ophthalmologists in many ways.
First, ideal protection against infection not only requires facial masks, careful office and examining lane cleaning between patients, slit lamp screens and social distancing, but also ocular protection. Eyeglasses alone are helpful, but goggles and face shields are necessary when examining high-risk or known infected patients.
One challenge is the patient who