Title: Health Point Prevalence of Sars CoV-2 Antibodies Among Asymptomatic Subjects in Delta State
Authors: Tarurhor, Love Eguonor , Prof Jemikalajah D. Johnson, Prof Ehwarieme Ayobola D.
Volume: 10
Issue: 1
Pages: 36-41
Publication Date: 2026/01/28
Abstract:
Background: SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence studies provide critical insights into the true burden of infection, particularly in settings where diagnostic testing was limited. Delta State, Nigeria, reported substantial community transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet the extent of asymptomatic infections has remained unclear. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among asymptomatic, unvaccinated individuals attending healthcare facilities across three major locations-Warri, Ughelli, and Asaba-between January and December 2023. Ten millilitres of venous blood were collected from each participant (n = 154), and sera were analyzed for total SARS-CoV-2 antibodies using ELISA. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics, and associations between seropositivity and demographic variables were assessed using Chi-square tests (p < 0.05). Results: The overall seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was 63.64%, indicating a high burden of past asymptomatic infection. Seropositivity varied across locations: Ughelli (75.47%), Warri (60.78%), and Asaba (54.00%). Age-specific distribution showed the highest seroprevalence among individuals aged 31-45 years (76.47%), while no positives were detected among participants ?61 years. Gender distribution revealed seropositivity of 36.36% in males and 27.27% in females, though the association between age, gender, and antibody status was not statistically significant (?² = 8.43, df = 4, p > 0.05). Location-based variations were also statistically non-significant (?² = 5.39, df = 2, p > 0.05). Conclusion: The findings demonstrate a high prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among asymptomatic individuals in Delta State, underscoring widespread undetected infections during the pandemic. Although demographic and geographical differences were observed, these were not statistically significant. The high seroprevalence highlights the importance of continuous surveillance and supports the need for strengthened public health preparedness in similar under-resourced settings.