Australian Journal of General Practice
Formerly Australian Family Physician (AFP)
PhD, FRANZCO, Clinical Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), University of Melbourne, Vic
At present, there are no studies demonstrating the clinical efficacy of hydroxychloroquine for the prophylaxis or treatment of COVID-19 infection.
Developments in ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment have led to marked improvements in visual outcomes for patients in general practice.
The ability of general practitioners to triage ophthalmic conditions appropriately is critical in our fight against COVID-19.
Caution needs to be observed during the COVID-19 pandemic if a patient’s symptoms align with a viral conjunctivitis.
Conjunctivitis may be a feature of COVID-19, with tears containing SARS-CoV-2 virus, and a source of potential transmission via aerosols.
Over the past 10 years significant improvements in technology underlying ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment have led to marked improvements in visual outcomes for patients.