Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG antibodies among eye care workers in South India

PURPOSE: Health care workers are at higher risk of acquiring the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. This study aims to understand the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody among the eye care workers in South India. METHODS: The participants included eye care workers from the nine eye care centres. All the participants were interviewed with a questionnaire to obtain essential information about socio-demographics, past contact with COVID-19 patients and additional information as recommended by Indian Council of Medical Research, India. Serum samples were tested for anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies by ELISA. RESULTS: A total of 1313 workers were included and 207 (15.8%) were positive for the SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody. The seropositivity was higher in the moderate risk group (19.5%) followed by low (18.6%) and high risk (13.7%) groups. The seropositivity was significantly higher among i) day scholars compared to hostellers (OR - 2.22, 1.56 to 3.15, P ​< ​0.0001), ii) individuals with history of flu-like illness (4.57, 3.08–6.78, P ​< ​0.001) or who were symptomatic or in contact with COVID 19 positive cases (2.2, 1.02–4.75, P – 0.043) and iii) individuals with history of systemic illness (2.11, 1.39–3.21, P ​< ​0.001). Individuals (11.97%) who had no history of contact or any illness were also seropositive. CONCLUSIONS: The effectiveness of the protective measures taken against COVID infection was evident from the lower percentage of seropositivity in the high risk group. The study highlighted the need to create awareness among individuals to follow strict safety measures even in non-work hours and also in social circles.