Assessment of immune and liver changes post COVID-19 infection and vaccination

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Department of Microbiology, Hammurabi Medical College, University of Babylon, Hilla, Iraq

Abstract

Background and Objective: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 that is causing the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic, has resulted in fatalities and illness. Vaccination from SARS-CoV-2 is the primary approach used to alter the course of the pandemic. Measurement of anti-spike protein antibody levels This cross-sectional study evaluated the efficacy and biochemical effects of the AstraZeneca and Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines. Methods: Plasma and serum samples have been collected from 150 SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals one month after receiving two doses, with antibody levels measured using the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay anti-SARS-CoV-2 S assay using a Cobas e-411 analyzer, and the nucleic acid testing method by Reverse Transcription Quantitative was used to distinguish infected individuals from non-infected ones. Results: Results showed 92% developed detectable antibodies (>0.8 U/ml), with 46% exhibiting high responses (>200 U/ml), 14% intermediate responses (>100 U/ml), and 32% low responses (<100 U/ml). One year post-vaccination, 69% remained protected, while 17% were sick within six months and 13% after six months. AstraZeneca showed variations in immune response, with rates of 88% for individuals under 40 years, 59% for those aged 40–60 years, and 38.5% for those older than 60 years. Sinopharm displayed a stronger correlation with age, with response rates of 43% for individuals aged < 40 years, 49% for those aged 40–60 years, and 31% for those aged > 60 years. No significant differences have been noted in terms of sex or history of infection. AstraZeneca led to higher increases in GOT (26.5 ± 6.5 vs. 23.5 ± 5.9), GPT (25.2 ± 6.8 vs. 22.8 ± 6.0), ALP (170.4 ± 49.5 vs. 159.8 ± 42.3), and TSB (0.9 ± 0.2 vs. 0.7 ± 0.2), indicating distinct biochemical effects. Conclusion These findings provide valuable insights into vaccine efficacy, immune response variability, and the need for booster doses.

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