Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 antibody response after Moderna vaccine booster on healthcare providers

J Infect Dev Ctries. 2023 May 31;17(5):617-622. doi: 10.3855/jidc.17268.

Abstract

Introduction: As an endeavor to control SARS-CoV-2 infection, the Moderna vaccine booster was given to healthcare workers to prevent reinfection and reduce the risk of complications from COVID-19. A heterologous booster vaccine is also thought to provide better protection against the current SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. However, research that evaluates the effectiveness of the Moderna vaccine booster and the resulting SARS-CoV-2 antibody concentration is needed.

Objective: To evaluate the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies after the Moderna vaccine booster and the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection before and after the Moderna vaccine booster.

Results: A total of 93 healthcare providers who received Moderna vaccine booster were included in the study. Examination of antibody concentration 3 months after the booster showed an average concentration of 10081.65 U/mL. There was an increase in antibody concentration before the booster and 3 months after, from a median of 1.7 U/mL to 9540 U/mL. Every subject showed a statistically significant increment of antibody concentration 3 months after the booster (p < 0.01). Thirty-seven (39.8%) subjects received two doses of the Sinovac vaccine and were confirmed to have COVID-19 with the Delta variant. After the booster, 26 (28%) subjects were infected with the Omicron Variant. Among the subjects who received two doses of the Sinovac vaccine and were confirmed with COVID-19, 36 (30.1%) had mild symptoms, and 1 (1.1%) was asymptomatic.

Conclusions: Heterologous Moderna vaccine booster effectively increases antibody response against SARS-CoV-2 variants and shows mild symptoms of COVID-19 infection.

Keywords: COVID-19; Moderna; booster; healthcare providers; vaccination.

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Antibody Formation
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Health Personnel
  • Humans
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Vaccines*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Vaccines

Supplementary concepts

  • SARS-CoV-2 variants