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vol.12BURNOUT SYNDROME IN ANGOLAN HEALTH PROFESSIONALS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMICINFLUENZA VACCINATION IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN TIMES OF PANDEMIC COVID-19 - MOTIVATIONS AND PERCEPTION OF RISK author indexsubject indexarticles search
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Revista Portuguesa de Saúde Ocupacional online

Print version ISSN 2183-8453

Abstract

ROQUE, A et al. FACIAL PALSY AS FIRST EXPRESSION OF COVID-19 IN A HEALTHCARE WORKER. RPSO [online]. 2021, vol.12, pp.42-47.  Epub Mar 25, 2022. ISSN 2183-8453.  https://doi.org/10.31252/rpso.23.10.2021.

Introduction

COVID-19 is an acute respiratory infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, globally distributed and highly transmissible. Recent data shows the capacity of this virus to reach central, peripherical nervous system even though the muscle.

Clinical Case Report

This is a case report of a healthcare worker, 31 years old in daily contact with COVID-19 patients. She developed right-side sensitivity changes and facial asymmetry, that is why she attended to an Emergency Room, where she was observed, medicated and being diagnosed with Bell's Palsy. One week later, she attended again due to fever, nausea and vomiting, the screening for COVID-19 turned out to be positive.

Discussion/Conclusion

This case report supports facial palsy as a possible neurological expression of COVID-19 infection. It turns out to be important a careful physical examination and detailed medical history, avoiding late diagnoses and, consequently, spreading of the virus.

Keywords : Facial Palsy; Bell’s Syndrome; COVID-19; Occupational Disease; Occupational Health.

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