COVID-19 seroconversion in the aircrew from Turkey.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spread globally, with air travel identified as a primary transmission route.
• Understanding immunity spread and occupational exposure risks is crucial for managing viral pandemics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in aircrew.
• To assess occupational exposure risks among aircrew compared to other professional groups.
• To understand the prevalence of immunity within different social and occupational groups.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional retrospective study design was employed.
• SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels were measured in individuals between December 1, 2020, and January 13, 2021.
• Pre-study Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) positivity was assessed.

Main Results:

• Aircrew exhibited a 46% IgG antibody positivity rate, higher than healthcare workers (41%) and other patients (35.3%).
• PCR positivity rates were highest in aircrew (39%) and healthcare workers (32%) compared to other groups (20%).
• Aircrew demonstrated the highest IgG antibody titers, with statistically significant differences observed across all groups.

Conclusions:

• Aircrew face significant occupational risk from SARS-CoV-2, comparable to healthcare workers.
• Recommendations include accelerating vaccination schedules for aircrew and enhancing protective measures to prevent reinfection.