Abstract
Introduction: Serologic studies are crucial for clarifying the regional dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic as well as the success of a vaccination campaign against COVID-19. We describe a cohort study investigating the seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in Magdeburg (Saxony-Anhalt, Germany). Protocol and study design: The SeMaCo study (Serologische Untersuchungen bei Blutspendern des Großraums Magdeburg auf Antikörper gegen SARS-CoV-2) is a longitudinal, regional cohort study to assess the seroprevalence of COVID-19 in blood donors from Magdeburg (Capital of Saxony-Anhalt) and surrounding areas. We consider blood donors as a surrogate for the healthy, working-age population of Saxony-Anhalt. The study primarily aims to measure the prevalence and kinetics of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in first time and repeat blood donors over a period of 21 months. The study explores four survey periods of three to four months each (January–April 21, July–October 21, February–April 22, July–October 22). At each visit, we will assess the attitude towards vaccination, the antibody response following vaccination, as well as undesired vaccination effects. Furthermore, we will collect data on occupational activities, housing conditions and the frequency of family and other social contacts. Discussion: The SeMaCo study extends the spectrum of seroepidemiological investigations in Germany. A longitudinal observation with repeated testing and serial interviews can provide a more accurate view on the dynamics of COVID-19 prevalence and spread than repeated cross-sectional studies. Based on interim results from similar studies, we expect a seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies below 5% in the first survey period. SeMaCo will influence policy decisions and preventative measures.
Highlights
IntroductionThe SARS-CoV-2 virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) has been circulating since December 2019
Serologic studies are crucial for clarifying the regional dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic as well as the success of a vaccination campaign against COVID-19
Based on interim results from similar studies, we expect a seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies below 5% in the first survey period
Summary
The SARS-CoV-2 virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) has been circulating since December 2019. At the beginning of the pandemic, the federal state of Saxony-Anhalt (FSA) was considered a COVID-19 low prevalence area within Germany (Robert Koch-Institut SARS-CoV-2 virus – report). The FSA has a seven day incidence of COVID-19 in 103 per 100,000 inhabitants, which is in line with the nationwide average (as of 14th May 2021) (Robert Koch-Institut – SARS-CoV-2 virus – case numbers). In March 2021, the seroprevalence of specific SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in a German population sample (93,000 blood donors) was reported to be a small proportion 7–8% (Robert Koch-Institut – Project RKI/SeBluCo Report) The use of safe and effective vaccines should protect individuals and the population from SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or COVID-19 disease. The spike protein is essential for binding to and fusion of the virus with the target cell It can elicit a protective immune response and is used as an antigen in vaccines. The SeMaCo study (Serologische Untersuchungen bei Blutspendern des Großraums Magdeburg auf Antikörper gegen SARS-CoV-2) will observe blood donors in the city of Magdeburg (capital of the FSA with 240,000 inhabitants) and surrounding areas
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