A SARS-CoV-2 minimum data standard to support national serology reporting

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Immunology
• Public Health Surveillance

Background:

• Healthcare laboratory systems generate extensive data, but national reporting in the UK is often incomplete.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for detailed laboratory testing data, including quantitative serology results, to understand seropositivity beyond basic qualitative measures.
• Current reporting lacks the granularity needed to fully interpret antibody levels and factors influencing seropositivity calculations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a minimum viable standard for COVID-19 serology data attributes.
• To enhance the granularity and national reporting of COVID-19 serology laboratory results.
• To provide a foundation for improved data sharing and analysis in response to health emergencies.

Main Methods:

• Collected 36 data attributes from 3 NHS laboratories and 29 CO-CONNECT partner organizations.
• Assessed data attributes against the need for a minimum dataset to determine importance.
• Conducted an NHS laboratory feasibility study and a literature review of national/international data standards.

Main Results:

• Developed a COVID serology minimum data standard (CSMDS) with 12 data attributes.
• Verified the CSMDS through feasibility studies in 3 NHS laboratories for national granular reporting.
• Created a standardized vocabulary for laboratory analyser and information management systems.

Conclusions:

• A minimum viable standard for COVID-19 serology data attributes has been proposed.
• The CSMDS enhances data granularity, augmenting national reporting of COVID-19 serology.
• This standard has significant implications for managing future pandemics and improving public health surveillance.