"COVID-19 Linked to Potential Vision Damage, Study Reveals"

A study published in PLOS Pathogens reveals that COVID-19 can infect the retina and cause significant eye damage, even if the virus does not enter through the eyes. Researchers at the University of Missouri found that the virus can breach the blood-retinal barrier, inducing a hyperinflammatory response and causing cell death. This discovery highlights the potential long-term visual complications of COVID-19, especially for immunocompromised individuals or those with pre-existing conditions like hypertension or diabetes. The study emphasizes the need for further research and monitoring of retinal health in COVID-19 patients.