SARS-CoV-2 Infection (COVID-19) and Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Conjunctivitis: Concurrent Viral Infections or a Cause-Effect Result?

The pulmonary effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19), are well documented; however, more evidence is needed to understand its effect on multiple organ systems. We present the case of a 69-year-old male with dyspnea for two weeks and bilateral conjunctivitis who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. He was found to be hypoxic, requiring supplemental oxygen. On hospital day two, he complained of worsening left eye pain with the development of a left lower eyelid ulcer. He underwent a CT of facial bones, which showed findings consistent with pre-septal cellulitis and abscess. Samples from bilateral conjunctival secretions and left lower eyelid ulcer tested positive for herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), and negative for SARS-CoV-2. He received supportive care, antibiotics, and famciclovir with almost complete resolution of his ocular complaints. This case illustrates an atypical COVID-19 presentation and raises concern as to how this virus modulates the immune system, allowing for concurrent viral infections.