[COVID-19 vaccination at the University of Alicante (Spain): detection of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 by rapid serological test, a cross-sectional study].

Abstract

Objective: Neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 have shown to be an effective tool for the analysis of the immunity generated against COVID-19. Numerous seroprevalence studies carried out in different groups have made it possible to draw a global map of vaccination coverage through the use of rapid lateral flow immunochromatography serological tests for clinical and epidemiological purposes. The objective of our study was to determine the degree of immunity against SARS-CoV-2 associated with the presence of neutralizing antibodies in administrative staff, teachers and students at the University of Alicante by means of a rapid serological test and to learn about their experience with vaccination against COVID-19.

Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was designed, based on the prevalence of antibodies against the S protein (spike) of SARS-CoV-2. A total of 888 people participated. The study was carried out with a single test (July 6 to July 22, 2021). Using logistic regression, adjusted Odds Ratios were calculated according to sex, age, type of vaccine, number of vaccine doses received, complete vaccination schedule, and having had COVID-19.

Results: The vaccines received mostly were Vaxzevria® and Comirnaty®, with 73.3% between both, although 67.2% presented a complete regimen. The results of the OJABIO rapid neutralizing antibody test gave a positive result in 61.4% of the sample. There was a high association between the variables COVID-19 infection, two doses of vaccine, Spikevax® or Comirnaty® vaccine, and eighteen/twenty-nine years old group with a positive result on the OJABIO test. A total of 712 subjects answered the parallel survey (80%) on adverse effects and preferences between the different vaccines against COVID-19.

Conclusions: The vaccination status against COVID-19 in the university community after six months of the start of national immunization strategies reflects low coverage despite the excellent willingness to get vaccinated. Neutralizing antibodies (NAb) rapid tests can be useful to guide immunization strategies and decide when to administer new booster doses.