POH-VAU (Seafood Virus Eye Disease) in Illinois

POH-VAU symptoms include: severe eye pain and throbbing, extreme ocular hypertension (dangerously high eye pressure that can exceed 30 mmHg), recurring episodes of eye redness and inflammation, blurred or decreased vision, light sensitivity (photophobia), seeing floaters or flashing lights, and watering eyes. In chronic cases: optic nerve damage, corneal scarring, iris atrophy, and permanent vision loss or blindness. Symptoms come in recurring episodes that worsen with each occurrence.

POH-VAU (Persistent Ocular Hypertensive Viral Anterior Uveitis) is an eye disease caused by a virus found in seafood and marine animals. You can contract it through handling raw aquatic animals without protection or eating raw seafood. 71.4% of cases involve frequent unprotected processing of aquatic animals or consumption of raw seafood.

Symptoms include recurring episodes of severe eye pain, extreme ocular pressure (hypertension), blurred vision, redness, light sensitivity, and seeing floaters. Repeated episodes lead to persistent high eye pressure that doesn't respond to medication, optic nerve damage, corneal damage, iris atrophy, and severe vision impairment or blindness.

The aquatic virus (CMNV) has been detected in 49 aquatic species worldwide, including shrimp, fish, and other marine animals found in waters throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The virus is particularly common in shrimp farming operations.

Treatment focuses on controlling eye inflammation and pressure with steroid eye drops, pressure-lowering medications, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. However, the condition often doesn't respond well to standard treatments, and repeated episodes can cause irreversible vision damage.

Wear protective eyewear and gloves when handling raw seafood or marine animals, avoid touching your eyes after handling seafood, thoroughly cook all seafood before eating (avoid raw or undercooked seafood), wash hands thoroughly after handling aquatic animals, and avoid splashing when processing seafood.

Yes, POH-VAU cases are increasing, particularly in regions with high seafood consumption. The virus has been found in aquatic species worldwide, making this an emerging global health concern. Check the outbreak data above for current case reports and geographic distribution.