# Seroprevalence of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibodies in Healthcare Personnel in El Salvador Prior to Vaccination Campaigns

## TL;DR

This study found that about 40% of healthcare workers in El Salvador had been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 before vaccination campaigns started.

## Contribution

The study provides the first seroprevalence data for healthcare workers in El Salvador before vaccination.

## Key findings

- 40.4% of healthcare personnel tested seropositive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.
- Younger age and living in central, densely populated areas increased seropositivity risk.
- Household size and working in auxiliary services were significant risk factors.

## Abstract

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is a highly pathogenic emerging infectious disease. Healthcare personnel (HCP) are presumably at higher risk of acquiring emerging infections because of occupational exposure. The prevalence of COVID-19 in HCP is unknown, particularly in low- to middle-income countries like El Salvador. The goal of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among HCP in El Salvador just prior to vaccine rollout in March 2021. We evaluated 2176 participants from a nationally representative sample of national healthcare institutions. We found 40.4% (n = 880) of the study participants were seropositive for anti-spike protein antibodies. Significant factors associated with infection included younger age; living within the central, more populated zone of the country; living in a larger household (≥7 members); household members with COVID-19 or compatible symptoms; and those who worked in auxiliary services (i.e., housekeeping and food services). These findings provide insight into opportunities to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 risk and other emerging respiratory pathogens in HCP in El Salvador.