More than half of COVID-19 patients are afebrile early in the disease course, yet mildly ill or asymptomatic patients can still spread SARS-CoV-2 with high efficiency.

 

Atypically presenting patients may be seen in noninfectious disease settings such as otolaryngology, which is a specialty prone to occupational exposure.

 

Otolaryngologists have been infected with COVID-19 at higher rates than other specialties in China and other countries.

 

Otolaryngology providers should maintain high clinical suspicion for mild and asymptomatic COVID-19 patients.

 

Protective strategies should be implemented including preappointment screening, triaging, restriction of nonurgent visits and surgeries, telemedicine, and appropriate personal protective equipment use.