The Serologic Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Amongst Incarcerated Persons in Provincial Correctional Facilities in Saskatchewan [SHA, study data contributed to the CITF Databank]

Aims of CITF funded study: The SHA study aimed to 1) measure the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among persons in correctional facilities in Regina, Saskatchewan; 2) identify the social determinants of health associated with SARS-CoV-2 among people in prison.

Methods

The SHA study was a cross-sectional serosurvey of incarcerated men recruited from a men’s prison in Regina, Saskatchewan. Inmates incarcerated anytime during study recruitment phases, which were limited by COVID-19 prevention measures, were invited complete interviewer-administered questionnaires and provide dried blood spots (DBS). Results: The shared data are from 400 participants, one study visit each.

All participants completed the questionnaire and a DBS test between July 2021 and January 2023. SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike and anti-nucleocapsid IgG qualitative results were obtained for all participants; however, 38 (9.5%) anti-nucleocapsid results were inconclusive. Variables include data in the following areas of information: demographics (age, gender, race-ethnicity and indigeneity, occupation), general health (smokes; chronic conditions; height and weight; flu vaccine), COVID infection and vaccination history, and qualitative serology.