Seroprevalence and incidence among BNITM employees

Newly available serological tests can detect IgG antibodies against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. For this purpose, serum samples are tested in the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA) as part of the study. An immunofluorescence test (IFT) will also be performed to confirm the results.
 
The aim of the study is to investigate the development of seropositivity and seroconversions in the staff of the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine during the pandemic. For this purpose, the presence of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 will be measured in a cross-section and in subsequent repeated examinations of the same individuals to determine the proportion of asymptomatic and subclinical infections, and to compare these between groups of employees and taking into account their working conditions and risk factors. The well-characterized serum samples will also be used to validate further antibody tests.
 
Project coordination: Maike Lamshöft