Patterns and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity among college students at Indiana University-Bloomington

This study examined the patterns and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity among college students from March to November 2020. Using data from a sample of students at Indiana University, we assessed (1) the duration and seropositivity following reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR)-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and (2) persistence of seropositivity over 10 weeks between two laboratory antibody test visits.

The longitudinal study was conducted at Indiana University from September to November 2020, with two laboratory antibody tests, and included self-reported RT-PCR results before the observational period from as early as 20 March 2020. This 6-9 month period contributes to our understanding of seropositivity dynamics. The study included 172 college students who had previously tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and measured their seropositivity.

Our results showed a notable decline (66.7%) in antibody positivity over the observed period. Additionally, 12 weeks postinfection, most students with a SARS-CoV-2 infection history (75%) were no longer seropositive.

These findings reveal a nuanced picture of antibody dynamics, highlighting the complex interplay of factors among college students. The study underscores the need for continued research on antibody levels among young adults to better understand the drivers of variations in antibody persistence.

#NCT04620798.