Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 seroprevalence in South-Central Uganda, during 2019–2021

Abstract

Background Globally, key subpopulations such as healthcare workers (HCW) may have a higher risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2. In Uganda, limited access to Personal Protective Equipment and lack of clarity on the extent/pattern of community spread may exacerbate this situation. The country established infection prevention/control measures such as lockdowns and proper hand hygiene. However, due to resource limitations and fatigue, compliance is low, posing continued onward transmission risk. This study aimed to describe extent of SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in selected populations within the Rakai region of Uganda. Methods From 30th November 2020 to 8th January 2021, we collected venous blood from 753 HCW at twenty-six health facilities in South-Central Uganda and from 227 population-cohort participants who reported specific COVID-19 like symptoms (fever, cough, loss of taste and appetite) in a prior phone-based survey conducted (between May and August 2020) during the first national lockdown. 636 plasma specimens collected from individuals considered high risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection, prior to the first confirmed COVID-19 case in Uganda were also retrieved. Specimens were tested for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 using the CoronaChek™ rapid COVID-19 IgM/IgG lateral flow test assay. IgM only positive samples were confirmed using a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) (Architect AdviseDx SARS-CoV-2 IgM) which targets the spike protein. SARS-CoV-2 exposure was defined as either confirmed IgM, both IgM and IgG or sole IgG positivity. Overall seroprevalence in each participant group was estimated, adjusting for test performance. Results The seroprevalence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in HCW was 26.7% [95%CI: 23.5, 29.8] with no difference by sex, age, or cadre. We observed no association between PPE use and seropositivity among exposed healthcare workers. Of the phone-based survey participants, 15.6% [95%CI: 10.9, 20.3] had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, with no difference by HIV status, sex, age, or occupation. Among 636 plasma specimens collected prior to the first confirmed COVID-19 case, 2.3% [95%CI: 1.2, 3.5] were reactive. Conclusions Findings suggest high seroprevalence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 among HCW and substantial exposure in persons presenting with specific COVID-19 like symptoms in the general population of South-Central Uganda. Based on current limitations in serological test confirmation, it remains unclear whether seroprevalence among plasma specimens collected prior to confirmation of the first COVID-19 case implies prior SARS-CoV-2 exposure in Uganda.

Rapid, early, and potent Spike-directed IgG, IgM, and IgA distinguish asymptomatic from mildly symptomatic COVID-19 in Uganda, with IgG persisting for 28 months

“…Additional factors, such as the introduction of vaccines and boosters, nosocomial exposures, which are important in maintaining antibody levels ( 68 , 69 ), may have also contributed to the long antibody persistence. There is a need for additional research into the re-infection rate and the effect of vaccines and boosters on antibody levels.…”

Two-years antibody responses following SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans: A study protocol

“…Following a wash cycle, Pre-Trigger and Trigger Solutions are added. The resulting chemiluminescent reaction is measured as a relative light unit (RLU) [ 35 , 36 ].…”

Systematic Review: Faktor yang Berperan terhadap Efektivitas Penggunaan APD dalam Mencegah Transmisi Covid-19 pada Tenaga Kesehatan

“…Lopez et.al (2021) melalui penelitiannya dapat memperlihatkan bahwa penggunaan masker berperforma tinggi maupun kombinasi antara masker bedah dan masker kain menunjukkan efek perlindungan bagi tenaga kesehatan. 15,16 didukung dari jurnal lain mengenakan masker respirator N95/KN95 atau mengenakan masker bedah lebih rendah hasil tes positifnya dibandingkan dengan tidak memakai masker. Sedangkan mengenakan masker kain lebih rendah dari tes positif dibandingkan dengan tidak pernah memakai penutup wajah.…”

“…15 Suuna et.al (2022) memperkuat argumen tersebut dengan menyatakan bahwa tenaga kesehatan yang konsisten menggunakan APD dapat secara efektif melindungi petugas layanan kesehatan dari COVID-19. 16 Byambasuren et.all mengatakan penggunaan APD perlindungan mata pengurangan risiko relatif dari 96% hingga 40%. 22 Wendling et.…”