The efficacy of intranasal recombinant interferon alpha-2b for emergency prevention of COVID-19 in healthcare workers

Healthcare workers are one of the main risk groups for COVID-19 infection and should be provided priority protection. Objective. To examine the development dynamics and epidemic process manifestations of COVID-19 in healthcare workers as well as to assess the efficacy of intranasal human recombinant interferon alpha-2b (Grippferon®) for emergency medicationassisted nonspecific prevention of novel coronavirus infection. Patients and methods. The incidence of COVID-19 in Perm healthcare workers was examined using official statistical data in the epidemic dynamics. The prophylactic efficacy of Grippferon® was assessed in the analytic cohort prospective study, involving 561 healthcare workers of infectious diseases hospital departments. Results. The incidence rate of COVID-19 among healthcare workers in Perm for the examined period from 09.03.2020 to 06.12.2020 was four times higher, than in the general population. Healthcare workers aged 30–59 years were found to be more likely to develop COVID-19. Physicians had the highest risk of infection compared to other medical professionals. The prophylactic efficacy of Grippferon® was shown to be high in physicians and nurses, who were in contact with COVID-19 patients. Conclusion. Recombinant interferon alpha-2b-based medication Grippferon® can be recommended for emergency prevention of novel coronavirus infection to ensure epidemiological safety of healthcare workers and patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key words: COVID-19, incidence rate, healthcare workers, recombinant interferon alpha-2b, Grippferon, intranasal use, prevention