• Jane Khan and Heather G Mack.
• MBBS, FRCOphth, FRANZCO, MD, Chair of Public Health Committee, The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, NSW; Clinical Senior Lecturer, University of Western Australia, WA; Consultant Ophthalmologist, Royal Perth Hospital, WA.
• Aust J Gen Pract. 2020 Oct 1; 49 (10): 656-661.

BackgroundPatients with red eyes frequently present to general practitioners (GPs). Although infrequent, some patients with COVID-19 may present with features typical of viral conjunctivitis. SARS-CoV-2 is expressed at a low rate in tears, which may be a source of infection to GPs caring for patients at high risk of COVID‑19.ObjectiveThe aims of this article are to outline: 1) ophthalmic complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection, 2) triage and management of patients with potential COVID-19 conjunctivitis, and 3) triage and management of patients with red eyes during the current COVID-19 pandemic.DiscussionIt is important that GPs: 1) have a high index of suspicion that patients with apparently typical viral conjunctivitis may have an uncommon presentation of COVID-19 illness, 2) develop appropriate telephone triage systems to reduce patient consultations, and 3) foster relationships with their ophthalmologist and optometrist colleagues who can provide phone advice, guidance on treatment initiation and definitive care when necessary.

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