COVID-19 in otolaryngologists: a cross-sectional multicenter study

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• The nose and throat are primary sites for viral load in COVID-19.
• Otolaryngologists may face higher risks of SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to other healthcare workers.
• Understanding SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in this group is crucial for risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among otolaryngologists in southern Brazil.
• To analyze the relationship between seropositivity and demographic factors, professional practices, and reported COVID-19 symptoms.
• To compare SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in otolaryngologists with healthcare workers and the general population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, multicenter study involving actively practicing otolaryngologists in Rio Grande do Sul.
• Screening for IgM and IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 from August 1 to September 15, 2020.
• Data collection via antibody testing and a supplementary questionnaire.

Main Results:

• A total of 358 otolaryngologists were screened, with a 6.4% seroprevalence for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (IgM and/or IgG).
• Seropositivity was significantly associated with reported infected household contacts (p < 0.001).
• Otolaryngologists demonstrated a significantly higher seroprevalence compared to the general population (RR 5.26-4.66).

Conclusions:

• Otolaryngologists exhibited a higher rate of SARS-CoV-2 seroconversion than the general population.
• Occupational exposure, even with personal protective equipment, did not correlate with higher infection rates compared to other healthcare workers.
• The presence of infected household contacts was a significant factor associated with increased seroconversion rates in otolaryngologists.