Evaluation of dentistry staff involvement with COVID-19 in the first 3 month of epidemiologic spreading in Iran

The new coronavirus - 2 is known to be a major threat to public health around the world. Common ways of transmitting the virus include direct transmission (sneezing, coughing and inhaling infected droplets and aerosols) and contact transmission (oral mucosa, nose and conjunctiva). When dental services are provided, large amounts of aerosols are produced during working with equipment. Iran was one of the main centers for the spread of the disease at the beginning of the epidemic, so this study evaluates the extent and severity of COVID-19 in the pre- and post-quarantine period.

The study was conducted through an online questionnaire, in which 1,100 member of dental association volunteered to participate in the study.

Since past 3 months, 74 (28.1%) reported Covid-19 symptoms, while totally, 18(2.2%) had definite infection. Ceramists had the highest incidence (50%) and dental students had the lowest incidence (19.3%) of symptoms. Among dental treatment staff, definitive rate of COVID-19 was higher in ceramists and dental students compare to dentists and dental specialists. In this study, 11.8% of the participants knew one of the members of the medical staff who died of COVID-19. The mean age of definite patients was 35.24 ± 12.24 yarrs old.

The low rate of definitive infection of dental treatment staff in this study shows that disinfection of the environment and sterilization and use of protective devices can normally be effective and useful in preventing the spread of disease and infection.