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COVID-19 Seroprevalence Study in Brazil Highlights Socioeconomic and Health Disparities

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A cross-sectional population-based serological survey conducted in the municipalities of Mariana and Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil, aimed to estimate the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies prevalence and describe the serological profile according to socioeconomic, geographic, and health characteristics. The study revealed a 5.2% infection prevalence, with significant associations between seropositivity and lower per capita family income, higher density of occupants per room, and previous contact with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19. Seropositive individuals reported higher frequencies of fatigue, dyspnea, ageusia, and anosmia, as well as lower educational performance and a greater number of comorbidities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study estimated a 5.2% infection prevalence among adults in Mariana and Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
  • Lower per capita family income (less than 0.5 minimum wage) was significantly associated with seropositivity (OR: 3.63; 95% CI: 1.70-7.76).
  • Higher density of occupants per room (more than 1.0) was associated with a reduced risk of seropositivity (OR: 0.42; 95% CI: 0.23-0.76).
  • Previous contact with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 was associated with seropositivity (OR: 2.58; 95% CI: 1.16-5.73).
  • Seropositive individuals reported higher frequencies of fatigue (14.8%), dyspnea (9.3%), ageusia (9.3%), and anosmia (8.8%).
  • Seropositive individuals also had lower educational performance and a higher number of comorbidities.

Statistics:

  • 1,762 adults participated in the cross-sectional population-based serological survey.
  • 5.2% of participants tested positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.
  • 62.9% of seropositive individuals reported a lower educational performance.
  • 73.3% of seropositive individuals had a greater number of comorbidities.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Federal University Ouro Preto Researchers Highlight Research in COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among adults in the cities of Mariana and Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil). Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. October 26, 2025; p 281.
  • Revista de Epidemiologia e Controle de Infeccao. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among adults in the cities of Mariana and Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Revista de Epidemiologia e Controle de Infeccao, 2025, 15(1).

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