Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been considered the most important public health issue recently as announced by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Otolaryngological examination made the otolaryngologists at close relationship with the patients and hence increased risk of infection. The objective of this study is to assess the infection control measures among otorhinolarynglogists in Upper Egypt and the common symptoms of COVID they faced during practice.
Methods: A survey of 205 participants was included in the study by internet based questionnaire that was administered to otorhinolarynglogists of Upper Egypt.
Results: 99% of the participants faced cases of COVID-19 in their practice with 62.4% of cases presented by sudden anosmia. Infection control measures followed by 93.7% of participants with 71.2% used a combination of face mask, alcohol and face shield in their practice. About 53.7% of the participants do emergent surgeries with 51.7% planning to stop practice temporarily.
Conclusion: Sudden anosmia in asymptomatic patients should be taken cautiously as it may be a sign of mild attack of COVID-19 In order to decrease COVID-19 transmission among otorhinolarynglogists, infection control measures should be used appropriately for their safety.