Análise da soroprevalência e eficácia da vacina contra COVID-19 em cirurgiões bucomaxilofaciais e auxiliares de saúde bucal pós pandemia em um estado brasileiro

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic was caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This virus primarily affects the respiratory system and is transmitted through aerosols and respiratory droplets from infected individuals. In this context, the occupational exposure of healthcare professionals, especially oral and maxillofacial surgeons and dental assistants, represents a high risk of contamination. This study aims to analyze the seroprevalence of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in oral and maxillofacial surgeons and dental assistants in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. A questionnaire was administered to oral and maxillofacial surgeons and dental assistants to collect personal data, information on administered vaccines, and the number of doses received. For the analysis of seroprevalence, blood samples were collected to quantify levels of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) in these healthcare professionals. All individuals had received at least two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Higher levels of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) were observed in individuals who had received five doses, indicating a possible dose–response effect. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons exhibited lower NAb levels compared to dental assistants, possibly due to greater occupational exposure. No significant differences were observed in hematological parameters between the groups. Vaccine efficacy contributed to the reduction of infection rates, while the same vaccination regimen resulted in different serological responses among individuals.