Ophthalmology in China ›› 2025, Vol. 34 ›› Issue (3): 180-184.doi: 10.13281/j.cnki.issn.1004-4469.2025.03.002

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Ocular transmission characteristics and prevention and control strategies of the SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus

Wang Ningli1, Gao Fu2, Zhang Xu1, Song Hao3   

  1. 1 Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing 100730, China; 2 CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogen Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing 100101, China; 3 Beijing Institute of Infectious Diseases, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100015, China
  • Received:2025-03-03 Online:2025-05-25 Published:2025-05-25
  • Contact: Wang Ningli, Email: wningli@vip.163.com
  • Supported by:
    Beijing Municipal Public Welfare Development and Reform Pilot Project for Medical Research Institutes (JYY2023-6)

Abstract:  Coronaviruses and influenza viruses are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets and direct contact. However, more and more studies have shown that these viruses may also enter the human body through the conjunctiva, causing ocular symptoms such as conjunctivitis and further spreading to the respiratory system. Coronaviruses and influenza viruses can invade the human body by specifically binding to different types of receptors on the surface of human tissue cells. These viruses can also mutate, leading to changes in their binding sites and transmission routes. It is suggested that medical staff wear goggles or face masks, and maintain good hygiene habits in daily life to reduce the risk of virus transmission through the eyes. (Ophthalmol CHN, 2025, 34: 180-184)

Key words: coronavirus, influenza virus, ocular, conjunctivitis, transmission route