Conjunctivitis May Be a Sign of COVID Variant Described as American

Conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the membrane covering the white of the eye and lining the eyelids, may be among the symptoms of a COVID variant described as American, according to experts.

The eye condition can cause redness, irritation and watering. However, these symptoms are not specific to COVID and can have other causes, including allergies and other infections.

The information provided does not identify the variant by its scientific name or explain how frequently conjunctivitis has been reported among people infected with it.

Eye inflammation alone cannot confirm a coronavirus infection or establish which variant is involved. Anyone experiencing persistent eye symptoms should seek medical advice, particularly if they also feel unwell.