Low prevalence of current and past SARS-CoV-2 infections among visitors and staff members of homelessness services in Amsterdam at the end of the second wave of infections in the Netherlands

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288610
• Publication Date: 2023-07-25T17:31:32Z
• Authors: Ellen Generaal; D. K. (Daniela) v...; Sophie L. Campman; Marjolein J. Booij; Dylan Price; Marcel Buster; Christa van Dijk; Anders Boyd; Sylvia M. Bruisten; Alje P. van Dam; Mariken van der L...; Yvonne T. H. P. v...; Maria Prins
• Keywords: Social distance

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) may be at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19. The Dutch government established emergency shelters introduced preventive measures for services. There were no major outbreaks noticed among PEH during the first two waves infections. This study aimed to assess prevalence current past infections staff by conducting an on-site COVID-19 screening project services in Amsterdam, Netherlands.We assessed proportion visitors members four locations Amsterdam with positive qPCR antibody results (IgG/IgM Rapid Test/Biozek) May 2021. We also sociodemographic, clinical lifestyle characteristics, compliance basic prevention intention vaccinate against staff.A total 138 53 filled out a questionnaire tested. Among PEH, positivity rate was 0% (0/133;95%CI = 0-1.9) 1.6% (2/131;95%CI 0.8-7.5) those without prior vaccination. staff, these percentages 3% (1/32;95%CI 0.1-16.2) 11% (5/53;95%CI 3.6-23.6), respectively. Most participants often compliant 'not shaking hands', 'wearing face mask' 'washing but not 'physical distancing'. High vaccination intent more common (55%) than (42%), while high trust governmental policies (41%) (30%).We observed low which explained instated shelter policies, limited daily activities measures. Vaccine hesitancy mistrust could hinder uptake, suggesting that interventions towards are needed.