Long term positivity of SARS-CoV-2 total immunoglobulins in convalescent plasma and blood donors

Abstract

BackgroundOne of the most questioned issues about SARS-CoV2 immunity is how long does it last. Whether lasting differences exist between infection and vaccination boosted immunity is yet to be known. The answer to this question will determine key issues such as the reliability of individual and herd immunity or the need of sanitary restrictions or periodical revaccination. The aim of this study was to determine how long total anti SARS-CoV2 antibodies due to past infection persist in peripheral blood and whether sex, age or haematological features can influence their lasting.Material and MethodsA total of 2432 donations SARS-CoV-2 from 662 repeat donors from April 2020 to February 2021 were analysed. Donors were 69.7% males and their average age was 46. An automated chemilumiscence immunoassay for total antibodies recognizing N protein of SARS-CoV-2 in human serum and plasma was performed.Results and discussionIn 97.6% donors with follow-up, anti SARS-CoV-2 protein N total antibodies remained positive up to 46 weeks after first positive determination. Blood group was not related to antibody waning. Lower lymphocyte counts and higher neutrophils and as well higher seric IgA would help predict future negativization of antibodies. The vast majority of donors keep their total immunoglobulins anti SARS-CoV-2 positive for longer than 10 months. Ageing might have a protective effect against antibody waning but, given the small number of cases that become negative, more studies, or larger cohorts would be needed to confirm these facts.