We present the first reported case in North America of COVID-19 presenting with keratoconjunctivitis as the main symptom. The patient's primary symptom was a red watery eye. A conjunctival swab of the affected eye was positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
This case emphasizes the importance for eye care professionals to remain vigilant and consider SARS-CoV-2 as the causative agent in any patient presenting with viral conjunctivitis and to take appropriate precautions to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
Collaboration and communication between residents and staff at the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences along with Infectious Diseases and Microbiology were essential in providing care to the patient as well as presenting the case.