Can the tears be a source of infection especially in the current pandemic times? A recent study conducted by the Government Medical College, Amritsar, says that tears of Covid positive patients are potential sources of spreading the infection.

This might sound unbelievable but the study has revealed that, yes, tears can also spread infection. Following this, the ophthalmologists have been urged to exercise caution while examining the patients. They have been asked to maintain distance from the patients.

It may also be noted that respiratory droplets remain the primary source of coronavirus infection. The Government Medical College published a study on the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in tears of Covid positive patients with and without ‘ocular manifestation’. The samples of tears were taken within 48 hours of admission from both the eyes of enrolled patients. 

‘Ocular manifestation’ refers to an ophthalmological condition that is directly or indirectly caused by a disease in any other part of the body. Out of the 120 Covid positive patients who were part of the study, 60 had ocular manifestations.

The study also states that COVID-19 positive patients can transfer the infection in conjunctival secretions even in the absence of ocular involvement.

(source:cnbc and indiatimes)