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. 2023 Sep 11:151:e162.
doi: 10.1017/S0950268823001425.

Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Republic of Congo, February 2022

Gilbert Ndziessi  1 , Roch Fabien Niama  2 , Axel Gilius Aloumba  3 , Jethro Massala Peya  1   4 , Joseph Axel Ngatse  1   4 , Ryschel Alist Ngoyomi  1   4 , Ange Clauvel Niama  1 , N'Kaya Tobi  5 , Antoine Loussambou  4 , Jean Medard Kankou  4 , Benjamin Atipo  4 , Jean Claude Emeka  4 , Pascal Ibata  6 , Donatien Moukassa  7 , Alexis Elira Dokekias  8
Affiliations

Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Republic of Congo, February 2022

Gilbert Ndziessi et al. Epidemiol Infect. .

Abstract

In resource-limited countries, the lack of widespread screening masks the true situation of COVID-19. We conducted this study to assess SARS-CoV-2 spread by detection of specific antibodies and to determine associated factors. A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Subjects were tested for the presence of two antibodies (IgM and IgG) specific to SARS-CoV-2. Data collection was done using a smartphone with the KoboCollect application. Prevalence of antibodies was estimated with 95% confidence intervals. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with positive serological test. A total of 9,094 persons were tested in 4,340 households. The mean age was 30.18 ± 18.65 years, 46.5% male. The overall seroprevalence (prevalence, 95% CI) of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was (48.2% [47.2%-49.2%]). Being vaccinated, having been in contact with a COVID-19 patient, being older than 50 years, living in a union, having secondary education and having tertiary education were factors independently associated with the likelihood of having anti-sars-CoV-2. We estimate in February 2022 that 48% persons had antibodies against the COVID-19 virus, more among those vaccinated. Vaccination intensification in low prevalence departments will reduce the risk of new outbreaks.

Keywords: COVID-19; Congo; SARS-CoV-2; antibodies; seroprevalence.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare none.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Distribution of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies seroprevalence by department in Congo, February 2022.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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