SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Dynamics in Healthcare Workers after mRNA Vaccination

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Vaccinology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Healthcare worker (HCW) health is critical during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
• mRNA vaccines are key for reducing HCW susceptibility, but antibody responses wane over time.
• Factors influencing antibody decay post-vaccination require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the impact of vaccine type (bnt162b2 vs. mRNA-1273), prior SARS-CoV-2 infection, and vaccine-associated adverse reactions on neutralizing antibody decay in HCWs.
• To understand the long-term antibody dynamics following primary mRNA vaccination series.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 296 HCWs received two doses of either bnt162b2 or mRNA-1273.
• Antibody levels were measured at two, six, and nine months post-vaccination.
• Subjects were categorized based on antibody decay rates (steep vs. gentle decliners).

Main Results:

• mRNA-1273 vaccination resulted in more sustained antibody responses compared to bnt162b2.
• HCWs experiencing vaccine-associated symptoms showed prolonged neutralizing antibody responses.
• Prior SARS-CoV-2 infection was linked to increased post-vaccination symptoms and blunted antibody decay.

Conclusions:

• Vaccine product choice (mRNA-1273 vs. bnt162b2) influences antibody persistence.
• Experiencing side effects may correlate with more robust and prolonged antibody immunity.
• Previous infection impacts vaccine response, potentially leading to faster antibody decline.