Is viral keratitis contagious?

Yes, viral keratitis can be contagious, especially if it is caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is the same virus that causes cold sores or genital herpes. This type of infection typically spreads by touching the eye after coming into contact with an area infected with the virus, or through direct contact with infected eye fluids. It is important to understand how the infection is transmitted to take the necessary preventive measures and protect others from infection [1].

How is viral keratitis transmitted?

Viral keratitis is often transmitted through direct contact with the virus. For example, if a person with cold sores (caused by herpes simplex virus type 1) touches these sores and then touches their eye, the infection can spread to the cornea. The virus can also be passed from person to person by coming into contact with infected eye fluids or surfaces contaminated with the virus, and then touching the eye [1].

Contagiousness varies depending on the type of infection; some viral infections, such as viral conjunctivitis (pink eye), are highly contagious and spread easily from person to person, while other types of eye infections may be less likely to spread, especially if they are caused by direct eye injury or poor contact lens hygiene [1].

Symptoms of viral keratitis

The symptoms of viral keratitis are similar to those of other types of eye infections, which makes an accurate diagnosis important. Common symptoms include [1]:

• Eye redness.
• Eye pain.
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
• Blurred vision.
• Eye discharge (may be watery).
• A feeling of itching or burning in the eye.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, especially if you wear contact lenses or have had an eye injury, it is essential to consult an ophthalmologist immediately to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment [1].

Preventing the spread of infection and its complications

Preventing the spread of viral keratitis and its complications requires adhering to good hygiene practices and taking certain precautionary measures:

1. Wash hands regularly: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after touching your face or eyes, or after dealing with someone who has a viral infection [1].
2. Avoid touching the eyes: Try as much as possible to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes, especially if your hands are not clean.
3. Contact lens care: If you use contact lenses, follow the ophthalmologist's instructions regarding cleaning, storing, and replacing them. Poor contact lens hygiene increases the risk of eye infections [1].
4. Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share towels, cosmetics, eye drops, or any other personal items that may touch the eyes [2].
5. Handling cold sores: If you have cold sores, avoid touching them and then touching your eyes. Wash your hands thoroughly after any contact with the sores.

When to seek immediate medical attention

Viral keratitis should be treated seriously, as it can lead to dangerous complications if not treated correctly and in a timely manner, including permanent vision loss or even blindness in some cases [1]. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe and sudden eye pain.
• Rapid deterioration in vision or sudden vision loss.
• Severe eye redness that gets worse.
• Thick or pus-like eye discharge.
• Severe swelling of the eyelids.

For additional information on this topic, you can visit Viral Keratitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention of Vision Complications (Arabic).

Medical references

• Common Types of Eye Infections
• Eye Infections