Results of a national web-based survey on the SARS-CoV-2 infectious state of otorhinolaryngologists in Germany

Herzog, Michael, Beule, Achim G., Lueers, Jan-Christoffer, Guntinas-Lichius, Orlando, Sowerby, Leigh J. and Grafmans, Daniel . Results of a national web-based survey on the SARS-CoV-2 infectious state of otorhinolaryngologists in Germany. Eur. Arch. Oto-Rhino-Laryn.. NEW YORK: SPRINGER. ISSN 1434-4726

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DOI:10.1007/s00405-020-06345-5

Abstract

Purpose SARS-CoV-2 is detected on the mucosa of the upper airways to a high degree. In the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, otorhinolaryngologists (ORL) are assumed to be at high risk due to close contact with the mucosa of the upper airways. No data are yet available providing evidence that ORLs have an increased risk of infection. Methods German ORLs were invited via e-mail through the German Society of ORL, Head and Neck Surgery and the German ENT Association to participate in a web-based survey about infection with SARS-CoV-2 and development of COVID-19. Data of infections and concomitant parameters in German ORLs were collected and compared to the total number of infections in Germany. Results Out of 6383 German ORLs, 970 (15%) participated. 54 ORLs reported testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. Compared to the total population of Germany, ORLs have a relative risk of 3.67 (95% CI 2.82; 4.79) of contracting SARS-CoV-2. Domestic quarantine was conducted in 96.3% of cases. Two individuals were admitted to hospital without intensive care. No casualties were reported. In 31 cases, the source of infection was not identifiable whereas 23 had a clear medical aetiology: infected patients:n = 5, 9.26%; medical staff:n = 13, 14.1%. 9.26% (n = 5) of the identified cases were related to contact to infected family members (n = 3), closer neighbourhood (n = 1) or general public (n = 1). There was no identified increased risk of infection due to performing surgery. Conclusion German ORLs have an almost 3.7-fold risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 compared to the population baseline level. Appropriate protection appears to be necessary for this occupational group.

Item Type:

Journal Article

Creators:

Creators	Email	ORCID	ORCID Put Code
Herzog, Michael	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED
Beule, Achim G.	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED
Lueers, Jan-Christoffer	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED
Guntinas-Lichius, Orlando	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED
Sowerby, Leigh J.	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED
Grafmans, Daniel	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED	UNSPECIFIED