Appropriateness for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination for Otolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeons in case of Pregnancy, Breastfeeding or Childbearing potential: YO-IFOS and CEORL-HNS joint clinical consensus statement

Purpose: SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are a key step in ghting the pandemic. Nevertheless, their rapid development did not allow for testing among specic population subgroups such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, or elaborating specic guidelines for healthcare personnel working in high infection risk specialties, such as otolaryngology (ORL). This clinical consensus statement (CCS) aims to offer guidance for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination to this high-risk population based on the best evidence available. Methods: A multidisciplinary international panel of 33 specialists judged statements through a 2-rounds modied Delphi method survey. Statements were designed to encompass the following topics: risk of SARS-Cov-2 infection and use of protective equipment in ORL; SARS-Cov-2 infection and vaccines and respective risks for the mother/child dyad; and counseling for SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pregnant, breastfeeding, or fertile healthcare workers (PBFHW). All ORL PBFHW were considered as the target audience. Results: Of the 13 statements, 7 reached consensus or strong consensus, 2 reached no Consensus and 2 reached near-consensus. According to the statements with strong consensus Otorhinolaryngologists – Head & Neck Surgeons who are pregnant, breastfeeding or with childbearing potential should have the opportunity to receive SARS-Cov-2 vaccination. Moreover, personal protective equipment (PPE) should still be used even after the vaccination. Conclusion: Until prospective evaluations on these topics are available, ORL-HNS must be considered a high infection risk specialty. While the use of PPE remains pivotal, ORL PBFHW should be allowed access to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination provided they receive up-to-date information.