Evolution of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Humoral Immunity Following COVID-19 Infection among Vaccinated and Previously Infected Healthcare Workers in C？te d’Ivoire
Background: Coronavirus disease (or COVID-19), caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the most virulent identified to date, remains a major global public health challenge. Given the essential role of specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity in protection against reinfection, it is crucial to characterize its kinetics to adapt vaccination strategies. This longitudinal study aimed to evaluate the kinetics of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and neutralizing antibodies produced by previously immunized subjects in response to new infection over 28 days within a cohort of 36 healthcare workers diagnosed with COVID-19 in C？te d’Ivoire. Methods: Between April and June 2022, healthcare professionals infected with COVID-19 were recruited from three university hospitals in Abidjan. Serum samples were collected, and anti-Spike IgG and neutralizing antibodies were quantified using a competitive enzyme immunoassay (Chorus TRIO, DIESSE). Both antibody types were evaluated at days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 following diagnosis. Results: IgG levels increased significantly over time (p < 0.0001), whereas neutralizing antibodies showed no significant variation. At diagnosis, residual IgG titres were higher in previously infected individuals, while neutralizing antibody levels were higher among vaccinated subjects and those with hybrid immunity. Upon reinfection, antibody production was enhanced in these groups. The higher IgG levels in previously infected individuals compared to vaccinated ones suggest a stronger booster effect when the same mode of immunization is maintained. Overall, IgG levels tended to rise progressively, contrasting with a decline in neutralizing antibodies, which typically occurred after a peak at day 14. Conclusion: IgG levels gradually increased, while neutralizing antibody titres declined after peaking on day 14.
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