Seroprevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 antibody in healthcare workers: a multicenter cross-sectional study in ten Colombian cities.

Background: SARS-CoV-2 affects mainly occupational health populations. Healthcare workers are at constant risk of infection. The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare workers in Colombia. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study focused on estimating the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in healthcare workers from 65 hospitals in 10 cities of Colombia during the second semester of 2020. The seroprevalence was determined using an automated immunoassay (Abbott SARS-CoV-2 CLIA IgG). The study included a survey to establish the sociodemographic variables and the risk of infection. Results: The global seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 was 35% (95% Bayesian Confidence Interval 33%-37%). All the personnel reported the use of protective equipment. General services personnel and nurses presented the highest rates of seroprevalence among the healthcare workers. Low socioeconomic strata have shown a strong association with seropositivity. Conclusion: This study shows the occupational risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers. Even though, all the personnel reported the use of protective equipment, the seroprevalence in the general services personnel and nurses was high. Also, it was observed a significant difference by city. The results could be used to perform prevention and control in this exposed population. However, further investigation of these is required to inform sources of infection to improve the control and occupational health practices.