Long-Term Antibody Response to SARS-CoV-2 in Healthcare Workers of Allied Hospital Faisalabad: A Post-Infection Analysis

Long-Term Antibody Response to SARS-COV-2

Abstract

Background: Analyzing SARS-CoV-2 antibody persistence is crucial for optimizing public health and deepening our understanding of immunity. Addressing geographic gaps is necessary for comprehensive insights into antibody persistence post-infection. Objective: To evaluate the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies post-infection among healthcare workers (HCWs) at Allied Hospital, Faisalabad Pakistan. Study Design: Longitudinal study. Settings: BSL-III Laboratory/Department of Pathology, Allied Hospital, Faisalabad Pakistan. Duration: July, 2020 to June, 2021. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from naturally infected individuals two weeks after their PCR-positive diagnosis providing informed consent. The detection and quantification of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies were conducted utilizing the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) to ascertain the IgG antibody levels. Results: A total of 94 HCWs were included with a mean age of 30 years. The antibody persistence was observed in 39% of participants with a mean age of 35 years. The study also highlighted a decrease in antibody reactivity across all age brackets over time particularly noticeable in young adults, with all groups demonstrating a decrease to approximately 60% reactivity by the end of the twelfth month. Conclusion: The study revealed a similar distribution among both genders. A notable finding is an overall decrease in antibody reactivity over time in all age groups, particularly in young adults, with a general decline to about 60% by the twelfth month. This study provides vital insights for public health policies and clinical management of SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare professionals.