American Rhinologic Society

Press Release – March 24, 2020

Dear Colleagues,

The ARS is aware of recent reports from our colleagues in the United States and overseas as well as from the media about anosmia being an early presenting symptom of COVID-19 in some patients, possibly preceding any additional symptoms such as fever and cough. Of course, anosmia can be a presenting symptom of non-COVID viral rhinitis as well. However, with the potential risk of transmission associated with procedures in the airway such as endoscopy, we wanted to inform the Rhinologic community about this emerging issue.

Please review the statements from the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, the British Rhinological Society, and media reports, here:

American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery:

British Rhinological Society:

CNN:

I am confident that we will overcome this COVID-19 crisis. That success depends in part and upon the dissemination of critical information as referenced above.

Stay safe…Stay healthy.

Thank you.

Robert Kern, MD, FARS
President
American Rhinologic Society

Press Release – March 20, 2020

You are all well aware of current events and the rapidly evolving implications of the COVID-19 pandemic. CMS and AAO have released official statements encouraging deferral of all but essential procedures at this time. We have very little data on the risk of infection to providers with the various ENT procedures, nor do we have evidence-based recommendations for the best methods of protection. At this point, policies will driven by your local hospital infection control committees, but they are also operating with very limited data. Consequently, at this juncture ARS leadership supports the CMS and AAO positions to delay non-essential procedures until the situation becomes more clear, and to exercise extreme caution when performing urgent ENT interventions. The ARS is continuing to monitor the situation as more evidence surfaces.

Sincerely,

Robert Kern, MD
President
American Rhinologic Society

Press Release – March 16, 2020

*****COSM 2020 CANCELLED*****

Dear Colleagues:

Due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic and its growing impact, the Combined Spring Otolaryngology Spring Meetings (COSM) April 22-26, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia has been canceled.

Presenters: Over the next week or so, you’ll receive information on submitting your abstracts for the Annual Meeting.

Refunds: Meeting registration fees will be refunded in FULL. The COSM meetings department is working on automatically refunding your credit card, however, you may contact their office directly at 312-202-5322 or via email [email protected]

Hotel Refunds: Although the Hilton Atlanta is aware of the meeting cancellation, please contact them to make sure that your refund is issued. Don’t forget to receive a cancellation confirmation number at that time. (Hilton Atlanta: 404-659-2000)

The American Rhinologic Society extends its sympathies to all of those who have been affected by the outbreak. This was a difficult decision to make, however, the safety of our members, presenters, and attendees remains our main priority.

Please check back periodically for updates.

In advance, thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,

Robert Kern, MD
President
American Rhinologic Society