Channel: KENS5 CBS
Aired On: February 6th, 2020
Experienced ophthalmologist Dr. Mirwat Sami spoke with CBS Eyewitness News reporter Holly Stouffer regarding the coronavirus and its likelihood of affecting Houston patients.
Coronavirus symptoms around the eyes include crusting, redness, and blurry vision; these symptoms also occur with common eye infections. Any viral illness can appear as conjunctivitis, or pinkeye. The flu, a common viral illness, shares many symptoms with coronavirus, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
There have been no cases of coronavirus in Texas, and so the risk of contracting it is incredibly low. Only those who have traveled to China within the last 14 days are considered to be at risk of infection.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology teaches proper screening, and Dr. Sami has not needed to send any samples to the CDC for testing.
To lower your chance of contracting any viral illness, practice proper hygiene. Wash your hands often and avoid touching your face whenever possible. If you feel sick, see your doctor immediately.
