Persistence of antibodies IgG to SARS-CoV2 in health care workers – Province of Buenos Aires

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the persistence of IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV2, in health workers of the public subsector of the Province of Buenos Aires, and correlate it with demographic variables (sex, age) and other health indicators (diagnosis of COVID-19, comorbidities and pregnancy).

Methodology: Descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study. Health workers with a positive result in a first sample (N = 388) underwent a second test to evaluate the persistence of antibodies by ELISA.

Results: Of the 386 people evaluated with a conclusive result, 296 had a first positive result between 30 and 90 days before the second test, of these, 90% had detectable antibodies. In those with a positive result more than 90 days ago (45), a significant decrease in persistence of 26.7% was observed. There were no significant associations between demographic and health variables and the second test result.

Conclusion: Antibodies remain detectable for at least 90 days in 90% of the cases analyzed. It is main to continue this study over time to have a major period of time between tests. The information shown here throws interesting and promising data regarding the possible protection of new COVID-19 infections in personnel with high risk exposure. This evidence could contribute to decision-making, both at the local and regional level, for the adequate vaccination planning, as well as for the management in the event of a possible second wave scenario of COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America.