Effect of SARS-CoV-2 antibody screening on participants' attitudes and behaviour: a study of industry workers in Split, Croatia

Ljubić, Toni; Banovac, Ana; Buljan, Ivan; Jerković, Ivan; Bašić, Željana; Kružić, Ivana; Kolić, Andrea; Kolombatović, Rino Rivi; Marušić, Ana; Anđelinović, Šimun

Objectives To investigate the changes in personal attitudes and behaviour before and after negative serological test results for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies. Study Design Cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Methods A survey questionnaire was conducted with 200 industry workers (69% males and 31% females) who had previously tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The survey examined participants' self-reported general attitudes towards coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), their sense of fear, as well as their behaviour towards protective measures before and after the testing. Results Participants perceived the disease as a severe health threat and acknowledged that the protective measures were appropriate. Respondents reported a high level of adherence to measures and low level of fear, both before and after the testing. Although these indicators were statistically significantly reduced after the test (p < 0.004), they did not result in irresponsible non-adherence behaviours. Almost all respondents attributed their application of personal protection measures to factors other than the results of serological screening. Conclusions Serological tests do not contribute to irresponsible non-adherence behaviours in an environment where protective measures are efficient. However, they may help reduce fear within society and working environments.