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Correlates of SARS-CoV-2 anti-RBD IgG antibody titers among persons experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles.

Nyamathi A, Shin SS, Doratt BM, Jones-Patten A, Salem B, Gelberg L, Lee D, Garfin D, Yadav K, Chang AH, White K, Arce N, Messaoudi I. Correlates of SARS-CoV-2 anti-RBD IgG antibody titers among persons experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles. Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.). 2023 Jan 12.

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Abstract:

OBJECTIVES: People experiencing homelessness (PEH) have been especially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, likely due to increased vulnerabilities stemming from chronic diseases, substance use, and mental health conditions. DESIGN: A case-control study to assess the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among PEH and associations with key variables. SAMPLE: A convenience sample of 97 PEH in Skid Row, Los Angeles. MEASUREMENTS: A structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic, mental health, drug and alcohol use, health care access, pandemic stress, and other COVID-19-specific questions. RESULTS: We found high anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) IgG titers among five of 15 PEH who reported no prior COVID-19 diagnosis or being vaccinated, suggesting undiagnosed and/or asymptomatic COVID-19. While anti-RBD IgG titers across vaccination categories were not statistically significant (p  =  .069), participants vaccinated with Janssen had the lowest mean anti-RBD IgG titers. In multivariable analysis, we found negative associations between level of SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers with the Janssen vaccine and depression; thus, a need for integrated care for PEH with depression and COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: Further research is warranted to confirm the immune response, initial and over time, to SARS-CoV-2 infection and to COVID-19 vaccinations, particularly among PEH whose immune systems may be impacted by multiple health conditions.




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