Dr. Christopher Clark, a visiting lecturer at the Indiana University School of Optometry, co-authored a recent article in the journal Review of Optometry, explaining that conjunctivitis is likely an early symptom of COVID-19, even in patients with no other apparent symptoms. 

According to the article: "The risk to eye-care professionals is thought to be due to respiratory droplets that primarily infect the respiratory tract and conjunctiva. There is also the potential for transference via touching the eyes, nose or mouth. Because of this, eye-care professionals could be the first contact for many patients with mild to no symptoms aside from conjunctivitis."

Dr. Clark is available to discuss the article, including steps eye-care professionals should take to protect themselves and their patients.