Seroprevalence and socioeconomic impact of the first SARS-CoV-2 infection wave in a small town in Navarre, Spain

Sci Rep. 2023 Mar 8;13(1):3862. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-30542-x.

Abstract

The characterization of the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 and its determinants are key for the understanding of COVID-19. The identification of vulnerable populations to the infection and to its socioeconomic impact is indispensable for inclusive policies. We conducted an age-stratified cross-sectional community-based seroprevalence survey between June 12th and 19th 2020-during the easing of lockdown-in Cizur, Spain. We quantified IgG, IgM and IgA levels against SARS-CoV-2 spike and its receptor-binding domain in a sample of 728 randomly selected, voluntarily registered inhabitants. We estimated a 7.9% seroprevalence in the general population, with the lowest seroprevalence among children under ten (n = 3/142, 2.1%) and the highest among adolescents (11-20 years old, n = 18/159, 11.3%). We found a heterogeneous immune-response profile across participants regarding isotype/antigen-specific seropositivity, although levels generally correlated. Those with technical education level were the most financially affected. Fifty-five percent had visited a supermarket and 43% a sanitary centre since mid-February 2020. When comparing by gender, men had left the household more frequently. In conclusion, few days after strict lockdown, the burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection was the lowest in children under 10. The findings also suggest that a wider isotype-antigen panel confers higher sensitivity. Finally, the economic impact biases should be considered when designing public health measures.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Communicable Disease Control
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Educational Status
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin Isotypes
  • Male
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Spain / epidemiology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin Isotypes
  • Antibodies, Viral