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

<b>Background:</b> Institutional settings, in general, were identified as increasing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition, correctional facilities have significant movement of incarcerated individuals in and out of facilities. This Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) study was one of four CITF funded Correctional Facilities ‘Hot Spot’ studies, and the only provincial study able to share data with the CITF. <br>

<b>Aims of CITF funded study:</b> 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. <br>

<b>Methods:</b> 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). <br>

<b>Results:</b> 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.