Coronavirus: Pink eye could be rare symptom of COVD-19, doctors say

With the growing number of positive coronavirus cases in the United States, doctors are trying to figure out all of the symptoms pertaining to the virus.

Now, the American Academy of Ophthalmology is recommending doctors take coronavirus precautions when dealing with patients.
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WATCH: Coronavirus symptoms, tips amid COVID-19 outbreak

According to AAO, several reports suggest the virus can cause conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye.

Pink eye is an irritation of the eye that causes redness, swelling, and sometimes discharge.

Although it's considered a rare symptom, reports show that the virus can possibly be transmitted by aerosol contact with conjunctiva.

WATCH: Is it possible to not show any symptoms even if you have the virus?

AAO says anyone who goes to the doctor for pink eye, but who may also be experiencing a cough, shortness of breath and who has recently traveled to areas known for the outbreak, could test positive for COVID-19.

Doctors also noted that these cases of pink eye are rare, and only appear to impact one to three percent of the people who tested positive for COVID-19.
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Dr. Sonal Tulsi with AAO recommends switching to glasses if possible during the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Click here for more from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

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