Purpose: The SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant emerged and spread rapidly among the population in the early stage of China’s normalized prevention and control in December 2022. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are particularly exposed to SARS-CoV-2, it is important to evaluate the impact of the omicron pandemic on HCWs in China.
Methods: A self-administered online survey was conducted on infected HCWs from four hospitals of Taizhou. A total of 748 HCWs received the survey via DingTalk, and 328 responded to the questionnaire. The risk factors were investigated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis.
Results: By December 20, 2022, 748 HCWs tested positive by PCR, and the infection rate was 11.4% (748/6581). Among 328 respondents, the most common symptoms were cough (88.4%), fever (83.5%), runny nose (77.1%), sore throat (73.2%), headache (70.1%), muscle aches (67.1%), and fatigue (53.4%). 69.8% (229/328) of the participants had five or more major onset symptoms, while no severe case was observed. The multivariate analysis indicated that the poor sleep quality (OR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.31– 4.02, P = 0.004) was an independent risk factor for more major onset symptoms, while wore gloves ≥ 95% times in working (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.28– 0.85, P = 0.011) was significantly related to fewer symptoms. In addition, 239 (72.9%) recipients reported high fever (temperature ≥ 38.5°C), less common cold (≤ 3 vs > 3 times/year, OR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.05– 4.65, P = 0.038) was significantly associated with high fever.
Conclusion: Our findings imply rapid transmissibility of omicron and multiple-onset symptoms among HCWs. Improved autoimmunity and self-protection measures for HCWs may be helpful in controlling infection and clinical symptoms. Our results provide empirical reference values for improved countermeasures and protective measures for major public health emergencies.
Keywords: SARS-CoV-2 omicron, healthcare workers, multiple onset symptoms, poor sleep quality, China