[Chinese expert consensus on prevention and control of COVID-19 eye disease (2022)]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Accumulating evidence links novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to ocular manifestations, termed COVID-19 eye disease.
• A lack of standardized guidelines exists for protecting medical staff during the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 eye disease.
• Ophthalmologists currently rely on individual clinical experience for managing COVID-19 related eye conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a consensus statement providing guiding opinions for the prevention and control of COVID-19 eye disease.
• To standardize the protection of medical staff involved in the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 eye disease.
• To address the current lack of uniform guidelines in managing ophthalmic complications of COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Expert consensus development by the Public Health Ophthalmology Branch of the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association.
• Thorough discussions among experts to formulate guiding opinions.
• Review of accumulated evidence on COVID-19's impact on ocular health.

Main Results:

• The consensus statement offers expert-driven recommendations for managing COVID-19 eye disease.
• It aims to enhance the protection of healthcare professionals in ophthalmology settings.
• Provides a framework for standardized care and control measures in China.

Conclusions:

• Standardized guidelines are crucial for the safe diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 eye disease.
• This consensus statement serves as a vital resource for ophthalmologists and public health officials.
• Implementation of these guidelines will aid in controlling the spread and impact of COVID-19 on eye health.