Effect of Personal Protective Equipment on the Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Healthcare Workers.

BACKGROUND

During the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, healthcare workers (HCWs) faced significant challenges related to their exposure to the virus and the prevention of its transmission. HCWs were advised to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when treating patients diagnosed with or suspected of having coronavirus disease 2019. However, the effectiveness of PPE in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the protective effect of PPE against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

METHODS

HCWs without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination were enrolled. Blood samples were collected at two-time points: the first between February and April 2020, before any patient contact, and the second between February and March 2021. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G antibodies were measured to assess SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RESULTS

Among the 181 participants, only one developed SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. However, an epidemiological investigation suggested that this infection was more likely acquired outside the hospital than during clinical duties.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that PPE is effective in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCWs.