The Epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 and Seasonal Respiratory Viruses in Ottawa, Ontario During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This thesis aims to describe the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 and other seasonal respiratory viruses (SRV) in the Ottawa region and determine if there are demographic or occupational risk factors associated with viral infection. This was accomplished in three articles: a rapid review of the literature evaluating SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in transit users, an account of SRV activity in Ottawa, Ontario from August, 2018 to January, 2022, and an analysis of coronavirus (CoV) incidence and prevalence in several at risk groups. Results indicated a reduction in SRV incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic correlated with the introduction of non-pharmaceutical public health measures. SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence indicative of natural infection was not greater in population groups hypothesized to be at greater risk of infection, such as transit users and those exposed to children. Lower socioeconomic status and racial or ethnic minority were consistently associated with higher SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence. SRVs are expected to resurge and co-circulate with SARS-CoV-2. Results from this thesis suggest those of ethnic minority, low income or immunocompromised individuals may at greater risk.