As the XFG Covid variant, nicknamed 'American Covid', spreads across the UK, a pharmacist has warned that less obvious symptoms such as red, gritty or sticky eyes could be significant. The warning comes as thousands across the UK are struck down by the dominant strain, which has become prevalent in multiple countries after spreading rapidly in the USA.
Eye symptoms linked to Covid
Noel Wicks, a pharmacist and adviser to GoldenEye, said: "The COVID-19 virus can enter the body through our eyes where it may cause symptoms." Clinical studies have shown that conjunctivitis (red eye) is present in people who test positive for coronavirus, with rates ranging from 2% to over 14%, even if people have no other Covid symptoms.
Wicks added: "In fact, conjunctivitis can be the first and/or the only symptom of COVID. A scientific review involving 20 studies and 3,383 people confirmed conjunctivitis as the most common COVID-related eye condition." The virus can get into several body organs including the throat and lungs, as well as the eye's surface and eyelids.
Research backs up symptom
Wicks cited a "super study" involving 6,308 people that estimated eye symptoms were found in approximately 11% of Covid sufferers, with conjunctivitis being the most frequent (88.8%). Other frequent symptoms included dry eye or foreign body sensation (16%), eye redness (13.3%), tearing (12.8%), and itching (12.6%).
He also noted that conjunctivitis usually strikes when a person's immune system is low, so catching Covid may increase susceptibility. Over winter, cold conditions and poor immune function combined with rising Covid cases create "a perfect storm" for conjunctivitis.
Early signs to be aware of
The latest UKHSA data published on October 15 revealed that Covid test positivity had climbed from 7.6% to 8.4% within a single week. Wicks said early symptoms of conjunctivitis include the white of the eye turning pink, sore and inflamed eyelids, gritty itchy eyes, and a white or yellow discharge.
He advised that a pharmacist can determine whether a pharmacy treatment may be suitable, such as Golden Eye Eye Drops, which contain propamidine isethionate to stop bacteria from growing. He also recommended keeping eyes clean with a flannel, avoiding rubbing eyes, removing contact lenses, and avoiding eye makeup until the infection improves.
