Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Ig seroprevalence in Northern Ireland

BackgroundWith the impact of SARS-CoV-2 upon public health directly and socioeconomically, further information was required to inform policy decisions designed to limit virus spread. This study sought to contribute to serosurveillance work within Northern Ireland to track SARS-CoV-2 progression and guide health strategy. MethodsSera/plasma samples from clinical biochemistry laboratories were analysed for anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulins (Ig). Samples were assessed using an Elecsys anti-SARS-CoV-2 or anti-SARS-CoV-2 S ECLIA (Roche) on an automated Cobas-e-analyser. Samples were also assessed via ELISA (Euroimmun). A subset of samples assessed via Roche Elecsys anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay were subsequently analysed in an ACE2 pseudoneutralisation assay using a V-PLEX SARS-CoV-2 Panel 7 for IgG and ACE2 by MesoScale Diagnostics Inc. ResultsAcross three testing rounds (June-July 2020, November-December 2020 and June-July 2021 (rounds 1-3 respectively)), 4844 residual sera/plasma specimens were assayed for SARS-CoV-2 Ig. Seropositivity rates increased across the study, peaking at 11.6% during round 3. Varying trends in SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity were noted based on demographic factors. For instance, highest rates of seropositivity shifted from older to younger demographics across the study period. In round 3, alpha (B.1.1.7) variant neutralising antibodies were most frequently detected across age groups, with median concentration of anti-spike protein antibodies elevated in 50-69 year olds and anti-S1 RBD antibodies elevated in over 70s, relative to other age groups. ConclusionsWith seropositivity rates of <15% across the assessment period, it can be concluded that the significant proportion of the Northern Ireland population had not yet naturally contracted the virus by mid-2021.