Real-world experience of SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays in UK healthcare workers

ABSTRACT Background The seroprevalence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare workers is variable throughout the world. This study compares use two antibody assays among large cohorts southern England. Methods cohort includes data obtained from staff at Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (WSHT) and Brighton University (BSUH) during voluntary testing, using Abbott Roche each respectively. Results observed level was 7.9% for WSHT/Abbott versus 13% BSUH/Roche cohort. Based on a previous positive PCR, we find that false-negative rate were 60.2% 19% respectively, implying sensitivity levels 39.8% 81%. Within these cohorts, seropositivity most strongly associated with those South Asian ethnicity, allied health professionals male sex (p<0.0001). Conclusions In this real-world study, neither test performed specification stated by manufacturer. More rigorous testing other target populations recommended prior widespread usage if they are provide might be useful control pandemic.