SARS-Cov-2 Seroprevalence among Non-Vaccinated Healthcare Workers İn Saudi Arabia

Abdullah A Alsabaani

doi:10.55489/njcm.161120255816

Authors

Abdullah A Alsabaani Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55489/njcm.161120255816

Keywords:

COVID-19, Serosurvey, Unvaccinated, Healthcare Workers

Abstract

Background: This cross-sectional study among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Abha, Saudi Arabia, assessed the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies to understand exposure and potential immunity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: Between January 2021 and February 2021, 489 asymptomatic, unvaccinated HCWs from hospitals and clinics participated. Serological testing for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was performed using ELISA.

Results: The overall seropositivity rate was 18.6% (95% CI: 15.2–22.0%). Nurses showed the highest adjusted seropositivity at 22.8%, followed by laboratory staff (20.2%) and physicians (14.9%). Multivariate analysis revealed nurses (OR=6.7) and laboratory staff (OR=6.1) had significantly higher odds of seropositivity. No significant differences were found based on age, gender, obesity, contact with COVID-19 patients, or adherence to PPE.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that PPE alone is insufficient to prevent virus transmission. A comprehensive strategy including vaccination, regular testing, symptom monitoring, ongoing training, and institutional support is essential for reducing infection risk and ensuring a safer healthcare environment.

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