A recent scientific study has revealed that a rare disease affecting the human eye is linked to a virus that was previously thought to affect only aquatic animals.
The researchers pointed out that the disease affects the human eye and causes inflammation and an increase in intraocular pressure, which is one of the causes of vision deterioration. The research showed that the eyes of 70 people with this disease contain traces of the CMNV virus, which is widespread among fish and aquatic organisms. An immune response to the virus was also discovered in the patients' bodies, indicating that these people had been exposed to a previous infection.
Analyses showed that the risk of infection increases in people who frequently handle raw seafood or aquatic animals without protective gear, with these cases being recorded in more than 70% of patients. In laboratory experiments, researchers demonstrated the virus's ability to infect mammalian cells, raise intraocular pressure, and damage tissues.
Scientists emphasize that their study shows a statistical correlation, not conclusive evidence that the virus is the direct cause of the disease. However, the findings suggest the possibility of viruses being transmitted from aquatic animals to humans and highlight the importance of hygiene and preventive measures when handling raw fish and seafood.
