1
|
Wüsthoff LEC, Lund-Johansen F, Henriksen K, Wildendahl G, Jacobsen JA, Gomes L, Anjum HS, Barlinn R, Kran AMB, Munthe LA, Vaage JT. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 and humoral immune responses to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines among people who use drugs - in the light of tailored mitigating strategies. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:120. [PMID: 38890611 PMCID: PMC11186241 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01023-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a surprisingly low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 among People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) in Oslo, Norway, despite their heightened vulnerability regarding risk of infection and severe courses of the disease.This study aims to investigate the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among PWUD, their antibody responses to relevant virus infections and COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, and their vaccination coverage compared to the general population. METHODS Conducted as a prospective cohort study, data was collected from residents in six institutions for homeless PWUD and users of a low-threshold clinic for opioid agonist treatment. Ninety-seven participants were recruited for SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence analysis. Additional two participants with known positive SARS-CoV-2 test results were recruited for further analyses. Twenty-five participants completed follow-up. Data included questionnaires, nasal swabs and blood samples. Data on vaccination coverage was obtained from the National Vaccine Register. Serologic methods included detection of antibodies to relevant virus proteins, neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, antibodies to the full-length spike protein, and receptor-binding domain from SARS-CoV-2. RESULTS Among PWUD, antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 2 out of 97 samples before vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 were available, comparable to a 2.8% frequency in population-based screening. Levels of serum antibodies to seasonal coronaviruses and Epstein-Barr-Virus (EBV) in PWUD were similar to population-based levels. After the second vaccine dose, binding and neutralizing antibody levels to SARS-CoV-2 in PWUD were comparable to controls. Eighty-four of PWUD received at least one dose of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, compared to 89% in the general population. CONCLUSION Results indicate that PWUD did not exhibit increased SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence or elevated serum antibodies to seasonal coronaviruses and EBV. Moreover, vaccine responses in PWUD were comparable to controls, suggesting that vaccination is effective in conferring protection against SARS-CoV-2 also in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Elise Couëssurel Wüsthoff
- Unit for Clinical Research on Addictions, Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4959 Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway.
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Reasearch, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1039 Blindern, Oslo, 0315, Norway.
| | - Fridtjof Lund-Johansen
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- ImmunoLingo Convergence Center, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Gaustadalleen 21, Oslo, 0349, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171 Blindern, Oslo, 0318, Norway
- Precision Immunotherapy Alliance, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171 Blindern, 0318, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kathleen Henriksen
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, Oslo Municipality, PO Box 30 Sentrum, Oslo, 0101, Norway
- Student Health Services, Student Welfare Services in Oslo, Problemveien 9, Oslo, 0313, Norway
| | - Gull Wildendahl
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, Oslo Municipality, PO Box 30 Sentrum, Oslo, 0101, Norway
| | - Jon-Aksel Jacobsen
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, Oslo Municipality, PO Box 30 Sentrum, Oslo, 0101, Norway
| | - Leni Gomes
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, Oslo Municipality, PO Box 30 Sentrum, Oslo, 0101, Norway
| | - Hina Sarwar Anjum
- Agency for Social and Welfare Services, Oslo Municipality, PO Box 30 Sentrum, Oslo, 0101, Norway
| | - Regine Barlinn
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
| | - Anne-Marte Bakken Kran
- Division of Infection Control, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222 Skøyen, Oslo, 0213, Norway
| | - Ludvig Andre Munthe
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- KG Jebsen Centre for B cell Malignancies, and Precision Immunotherapy Alliance, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
| | - John T Vaage
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital, PO Box 4950 Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, PO Box 1171 Blindern, Oslo, 0318, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Moguem Soubgui AF, Ndeme Mboussi WS, Kojom Foko LP, Embolo Enyegue EL, Koanga Mogtomo ML. Serological surveillance reveals a high exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and altered immune response among COVID-19 unvaccinated Cameroonian individuals. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002380. [PMID: 38346064 PMCID: PMC10861046 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Surveillance of COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 dynamics is crucial to understanding natural history and providing insights into the population's exposure risk and specific susceptibilities. This study investigated the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, its predictors, and immunological status among unvaccinated patients in Cameroon. A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted between January and September 2022 in the town of Douala. Patients were consecutively recruited, and data of interest were collected using a questionnaire. Blood samples were collected to determine Immunoglobin titres (IgM and IgG), interferon gamma (IFN- γ) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) by ELISA, and CD4+ cells by flow cytometry. A total of 342 patients aged 41.5 ± 13.9 years were included. Most participants (75.8%) were asymptomatic. The overall crude prevalence of IgM and IgG was 49.1% and 88.9%, respectively. After adjustment, the seroprevalence values were 51% for IgM and 93% for IgM. Ageusia and anosmia have displayed the highest positive predictive values (90.9% and 82.4%) and specificity (98.9% and 98.3%). The predictors of IgM seropositivity were being diabetic (aOR = 0.23, p = 0.01), frequently seeking healthcare (aOR = 1.97, p = 0.03), and diagnosed with ageusia (aOR = 20.63, p = 0.005), whereas those of IgG seropositivity included health facility (aOR = 0.15, p = 0.01), age of 40-50 years (aOR = 8.78, p = 0.01), married (aOR = 0.21, p = 0.02), fever (aOR = 0.08, p = 0.01), and ageusia (aOR = 0.08, p = 0.01). CD4+, IFN-γ, and IL-6 were impaired in seropositive individuals, with a confounding role of socio-demographic factors or comorbidities. Although the WHO declared the end of COVID-19 as a public health emergency, the findings of this study indicate the need for continuous surveillance to adequately control the disease in Cameroon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arlette Flore Moguem Soubgui
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, The University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
- Centre de Recherche et d’Expertise en Biologie, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Wilfred Steve Ndeme Mboussi
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, The University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
- Centre de Recherche et d’Expertise en Biologie, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Loick Pradel Kojom Foko
- Centre de Recherche et d’Expertise en Biologie, Douala, Cameroon
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, The University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Elisée Libert Embolo Enyegue
- Center for Research on Health and Priority Diseases, Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation, Yaoundé, Centre Region, Cameroon
| | - Martin Luther Koanga Mogtomo
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, The University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
- Centre de Recherche et d’Expertise en Biologie, Douala, Cameroon
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Strozza C, Vigezzi S, Callaway J, Aburto JM. The impact of COVID-19 on life expectancy across socioeconomic groups in Denmark. Popul Health Metr 2024; 22:3. [PMID: 38321440 PMCID: PMC10848407 DOI: 10.1186/s12963-024-00323-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Denmark was one of the few countries that experienced an increase in life expectancy in 2020, and one of the few to see a decrease in 2021. Because COVID-19 mortality is associated with socioeconomic status (SES), we hypothesize that certain subgroups of the Danish population experienced changes in life expectancy in 2020 and 2021 that differed from the country overall. We aim to quantify life expectancy in Denmark in 2020 and 2021 by SES and compare this to recent trends in life expectancy (2014-2019). METHODS We used Danish registry data from 2014 to 2021 for all individuals aged 30+. We classified the study population into SES groups using income quartiles and calculated life expectancy at age 30 by year, sex, and SES, and the differences in life expectancy from 2019 to 2020 and 2020 to 2021. We compared these changes to the average 1-year changes from 2014 to 2019 with 95% confidence intervals. Lastly, we decomposed these changes by age and cause of death distinguishing seven causes, including COVID-19, and a residual category. RESULTS We observed a mortality gradient in life expectancy changes across SES groups in both pandemic years. Among women, those of higher SES experienced a larger increase in life expectancy in 2020 and a smaller decrease in 2021 compared to those of lower SES. Among men, those of higher SES experienced an increase in life expectancy in both 2020 and 2021, while those of lower SES experienced a decrease in 2021. The impact of COVID-19 mortality on changes in life expectancy in 2020 was counterbalanced by improvements in non-COVID-19 mortality, especially driven by cancer and cardiovascular mortality. However, in 2021, non-COVID-19 mortality contributed negatively even for causes as cardiovascular mortality that has generally a positive impact on life expectancy changes, resulting in declines for most SES groups. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 mortality disproportionally affected those of lower SES and exacerbated existing social inequalities in Denmark. We conclude that in health emergencies, particular attention should be paid to those who are least socially advantaged to avoid widening the already existing mortality gap with those of higher SES. This research contributes to the discussion on social inequalities in mortality in high-income countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cosmo Strozza
- Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Serena Vigezzi
- Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Julia Callaway
- Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - José Manuel Aburto
- Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fogh K, Graakjær Larsen T, Martel CJM, Trier Møller F, Skafte Vestergaard L, Trebbien R, Vangsted AM, Grove Krause T. Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 infection based on self-administered swabs, Denmark, May to July 2022: evaluation of a pilot study. Euro Surveill 2023; 28:2200907. [PMID: 37733236 PMCID: PMC10515494 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2023.28.38.2200907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, the Danish National Institute for Infectious Disease, Statens Serum Institute (SSI) developed a home-based SARS-CoV-2 surveillance system.AimsWe wanted to determine whether a cohort of individuals performing self-administered swabs for PCR at home could support surveillance of SARS-CoV-2, including detection and assessment of new variants. We also aimed to evaluate the logistical setup.MethodsFrom May to July 2022, 10,000 blood donors were invited to participate, along with their household members. Participation required performing a self-swab for 4 consecutive weeks and answering symptom questionnaires via a web app. Swabs were sent by post to SSI for PCR analysis and whole genome sequencing. After study completion, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire concerning their experience.ResultsIn total, 2,186 individuals enrolled (47.4% blood donors), and 1,333 performed self-swabbing (53.0 blood donors), of whom 48 had at least one SARS-CoV-2-positive sample. Fourteen different Omicron subvariants, primarily BA.5 subvariants, were identified by whole genome sequencing (WGS). In total, 29 of the 63 SARS-CoV-2-positive samples were taken from individuals who were asymptomatic at the time of swabbing. Participants collected 2.9 swabs on average, with varying intervals between swabs. Transmission within households was observed in only three of 25 households.ConclusionParticipants successfully performed self-swabs and answered symptom questionnaires. Also, WGS analysis of samples was possible. The system can support surveillance of respiratory pathogens and also holds potential as a diagnostic tool, easing access to test for at-risk groups, while also reducing the burden on healthcare system resources.
Collapse
|
5
|
Fogh K, Eriksen ARR, Larsen TG, Hasselbalch RB, Bundgaard H, Scharff BFSS, Nielsen SD, Jørgensen CS, Erikstrup C, Østergaard L, Ellermann-Eriksen S, Andersen B, Nielsen H, Johansen IS, Wiese L, Hindhede L, Mikkelsen S, Sækmose SG, Aagaard B, Holm DK, Harritshøj L, Simonsen L, Fischer TK, Folke F, Lippert F, Ostrowski SR, Benfield T, Mølbak K, Ethelberg S, Koch A, Vangsted AM, Krause TG, Fomsgaard A, Ullum H, Skov R, Iversen K. A Cross-Sectional Study of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies and Risk Factors for Seropositivity in Staff in Day Care Facilities and Preschools in Denmark. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0417422. [PMID: 36546864 PMCID: PMC9927135 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04174-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to provide information about immunity against COVID-19 along with risk factors and behavior among employees in day care facilities and preschools (DCS) in Denmark. In collaboration with the Danish Union of Pedagogues, during February and March 2021, 47,810 members were offered a point-of-care rapid SARS-CoV-2 antibody test (POCT) at work and were invited to fill in an electronic questionnaire covering COVID-19 exposure. Seroprevalence data from Danish blood donors (total Ig enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]) were used as a proxy for the Danish population. A total of 21,018 (45%) DCS employees completed the questionnaire and reported their POCT result {median age, 44.3 years (interquartile range [IQR], [32.7 to 53.6]); females, 84.1%}, of which 20,267 (96.4%) were unvaccinated and included in analysis. A total of 1,857 (9.2%) participants tested seropositive, significantly higher than a seroprevalence at 7.6% (risk ratio [RR], 1.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14 to 1.27) among 40,541 healthy blood donors (median age, 42 years [IQR, 28 to 53]; males, 51.3%). Exposure at work (RR, 2.9; 95% CI, 2.3 to 3.6) was less of a risk factor than exposure within the household (RR, 12.7; 95% CI, 10.2 to 15.8). Less than 25% of participants reported wearing face protection at work. Most of the participants expressed some degree of fear of contracting COVID-19 both at work and outside work. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was slightly higher in DCS staff than in blood donors, but possible exposure at home was associated with a higher risk than at work. DCS staff expressed fear of contracting COVID-19, though there was limited use of face protection at work. IMPORTANCE Identifying at-risk groups and evaluating preventive interventions in at-risk groups is imperative for the ongoing pandemic as well as for the control of future epidemics. Although DCS staff have a much higher risk of being infected within their own household than at their workplace, most are fearful of being infected with COVID-19 or bringing COVID-19 to work. This represents an interesting dilemma and an important issue which should be addressed by public health authorities for risk communication and pandemic planning. This study design can be used in a strategy for ongoing surveillance of COVID-19 immunity or other infections in the population. The findings of this study can be used to assess the need for future preventive interventions in DCS, such as the use of personal protective equipment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamille Fogh
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alexandra R. R. Eriksen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Rasmus B. Hasselbalch
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henning Bundgaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Bibi F. S. S. Scharff
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Susanne D. Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | | | - Christian Erikstrup
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lars Østergaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Svend Ellermann-Eriksen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Berit Andersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- University Research Clinic for Cancer Screening, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
| | - Henrik Nielsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Odense, Denmark
| | - Isik S. Johansen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Lothar Wiese
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Lotte Hindhede
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Susan Mikkelsen
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Susanne G. Sækmose
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Zealand University Hospital, Koege, Denmark
| | - Bitten Aagaard
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Dorte K. Holm
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Lene Harritshøj
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Lone Simonsen
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Thea K. Fischer
- Department of Clinical Research, North Zealand Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fredrik Folke
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen Emergency Medical Services, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Freddy Lippert
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen Emergency Medical Services, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sisse R. Ostrowski
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Thomas Benfield
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Kåre Mølbak
- Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Steen Ethelberg
- Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Koch
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
- Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kasper Iversen
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Hellerup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Krogsgaard LW, Espenhain L, Tribler S, Sværke Jørgensen C, Hansen CH, Møller FT, Glode Helmuth I, Sönksen UW, Vangsted AM, Ullum H, Ethelberg S. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Denmark: Results of Two Nationwide Population-Based Surveys, February and May 2021. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:301-312. [PMID: 36683911 PMCID: PMC9851711 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s383491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Seroprevalence studies can be used to measure the progression of national COVID-19 epidemics. The Danish National Seroprevalence Survey of SARS-CoV-2 infections (DSS) was conducted as five separate surveys between May 2020 and May 2021. Here, we present results from the two last surveys conducted in February and May 2021. Methods Persons aged 12 or older were randomly selected from the Danish Population Register and those having received COVID-19 vaccination subsequently excluded. Invitations to have blood drawn in local test centers were sent by mail. Samples were analyzed for whole Immunoglobulin by ELISA. Seroprevalence was estimated by sex, age and geography. Comparisons to vaccination uptake and RT-PCR test results were made. Results In February 2021, we found detectable antibodies in 7.2% (95% CI: 6.3-7.9%) of the invited participants (participation rate 25%) and in May 2021 in 8.6% (95% CI: 7.6-9.5%) of the invited (participation rate: 14%). Seroprevalence did not differ by sex, but by age group, generally being higher among the <50 than 50+ year-olds. In May 2021, levels of seroprevalence varied from an estimated 13% (95% CI: 12-15%) in the capital to 5.2% (95% CI: 3.4-7.4%) in rural areas. Combining seroprevalence results with vaccine coverage, estimates of protection against infection in May 2021 varied from 95% among 65+ year-olds down to 10-20% among 12-40 year-olds. In March-May 2021, an estimated 80% of all community SARS-CoV-2 infections were diagnosed by RT-PCR and captured by surveillance. Conclusion Seroprevalence estimates doubled during the 2020-21 winter wave of SARS-CoV-2 infections and then stabilized as vaccinations were rolled out. The epidemic affected large cities and younger people the most. Denmark saw comparatively low infections rates, but high test coverage; an estimated four out of five infections were detected by RT-PCR in March-May 2021.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lene Wulff Krogsgaard
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laura Espenhain
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Siri Tribler
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Christian Holm Hansen
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frederik Trier Møller
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Glode Helmuth
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ute Wolff Sönksen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark,TestCentre Denmark, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Henrik Ullum
- Division of Infectious Disease Preparedness, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steen Ethelberg
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark,Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark,Correspondence: Steen Ethelberg, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, 5 Artillerivej, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark, Tel +45 3268 3545, Email
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Alexopoulos H, Trougakos IP, Dimopoulos MA, Terpos E. Clinical usefulness of testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 antibodies. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 107:7-16. [PMID: 36379820 PMCID: PMC9647045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In the COVID-19 pandemic era, antibody testing against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has proven an invaluable tool and herein we highlight some of the most useful clinical and/or epidemiological applications of humoral immune responses recording. Anti-spike circulating IgGs and SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies can serve as predictors of disease progression or disease prevention, whereas anti-nucleocapsid antibodies can help distinguishing infection from vaccination. Also, in the era of immunotherapies we address the validity of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody monitoring post-infection and/or vaccination following therapies with the popular anti-CD20 monoclonals, as well as in the context of various cancers or autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Additional crucial applications include population immunosurveillance, either at the general population or at specific communities such as health workers. Finally, we discuss how testing of antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid can inform us on the neurological complications that often accompany COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry Alexopoulos
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 15784, Greece
| | - Ioannis P Trougakos
- Department of Cell Biology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 15784, Greece
| | - Meletios-Athanasios Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Alexandra General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 11528, Greece
| | - Evangelos Terpos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Alexandra General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 11528, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Apolonio JS, da Silva Júnior RT, Cuzzuol BR, Araújo GRL, Marques HS, Barcelos IDS, Santos LKDS, Malheiro LH, Lima de Souza Gonçalves V, Freire de Melo F. Syndemic aspects between COVID-19 pandemic and social inequalities. World J Methodol 2022; 12:350-364. [PMID: 36186746 PMCID: PMC9516541 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v12.i5.350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has reached all over the world population, it has demonstrated a heterogeneous impact on different populations. The most vulnerable communities which coexist daily with the social inequalities like low access to hygiene and personal protection products, crowded residences, and higher levels of chronic diseases have a higher risk of contact and the spread of infection, beyond unfavorable clinical outcomes. The elevation of the risk of infection exposure can be related to gender due to the presence of a larger contingent of women in essential services, as well as frontline and cleaning professionals who regardless of gender have the greatest exposure to the virus. Such exposures can contribute to the development of fear of contaminating themselves or their family members associated also with the work stress, both of which are related to the emergence of mental disturbances in these populations. Furthermore, conditions of unsanitary living and low socioeconomic status, populations at war, pre-existing social barriers, and ethnicity have contributed to more impact of the pandemic both in the exposure to the virus and access to health services, COVID-19 management, and management of other pathologies. At the same time, factors such as the closing of non-essential services, the loss of jobs, and the increase in household spending aggravated the social vulnerabilities and impacted the family economy. Lastly, the COVID-19 pandemic contributed still more to the impact on women's health since it propitiated a favorable environment for increasing domestic violence rates, through the segregation of women from social life, and increasing the time of the victims with their aggressors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Santos Apolonio
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Beatriz Rocha Cuzzuol
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Glauber Rocha Lima Araújo
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Hanna Santos Marques
- Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia, Campus Vitória da Conquista, Vitória da Conquista 45083-900, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Isadora de Souza Barcelos
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Luana Kauany de Sá Santos
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Luciano Hasimoto Malheiro
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Fabrício Freire de Melo
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, Bahia, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|