Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Surgeons in Kerala: A Cross-sectional Online Survey

Abstract

Abstract Background: This cross-sectional study among dentists in Kerala assessed the COVID-19 prevalence and severity, vaccination status, and medication usage in August 2022. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was created to assess the impact of COVID-19 on dental surgeons in Kerala. This questionnaire had 19 questions with multiple choices which were converted into Google Forms and distributed among the dentists residing in Kerala. Results: A total of 650 dentists responded to the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 76.4%. As of August 2022, the prevalence of COVID-19 among Kerala dentists was found to be 33.23%. 60.7% of positive dentists were either asymptomatic or had only mild symptoms. 99% had received at least one vaccine dose, mainly Covishield. The prevalence of COVID-19 positivity was higher among dentists with postgraduate degrees (47.4%) in comparison with participants holding only BDS degrees. Conclusion: The prevalence of COVID-19 among practicing dentists was 33.23%. All dentists were vaccinated and used good preventive measures.