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Comparison of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) vaccine side effects by age groups
Fadime Tosun1, Mehmet Bulbul2, İsmail Tosun3
1Adiyaman University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation - Adiyaman, Turkey.
Objective:
This online survey aims to compare the side effects that may occur after inactivated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) vaccination by age groups.
Methods:
A total of 411 participants aged 18-100 who received inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine were included in the study.
Results:
Participants were divided into four groups according to their ages (i.e., 20-35, 36-50, 51-65, and over 65 years old). Vaccine-related side effects were primarily seen in the 20-35 age group and at least in the >65 age group (p<0.001). The most common side effects were pain, redness, swelling, and numbness at the injection site. Fatigue and headache were other common side effects. After vaccination, 3 (0.73%) participants had hypertension, and 1 (0.24%) had an asthma attack and was admitted to the hospital. No severe side effects were observed in any of the patients. The most critical factors determining the development of side effects were female gender and young age.
Conclusion:
According to the results of this study, different types and rates of side effects are seen in all age groups after the inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine. Since the 20-35 age group and female gender are at risk of side effects, it would be more appropriate to follow up the side effects after vaccination according to gender and age.
Insights
Younger adults and females experienced more side effects from inactivated COVID-19 vaccines. Monitoring vaccine side effects by age and gender is recommended for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Public Health
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Inactivated vaccines are widely used for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) prevention.
- Understanding vaccine side effect profiles across different demographics is crucial for public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the incidence and types of side effects following inactivated COVID-19 vaccination across various age groups.
- To identify demographic factors associated with vaccine-related adverse events.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was conducted with 411 participants aged 18-100 who received an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine.
- Participants were stratified into four age groups: 20-35, 36-50, 51-65, and over 65 years.
- Data on vaccine side effects, including injection site reactions and systemic symptoms, were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- The 20-35 age group reported the highest incidence of side effects, while the >65 age group reported the lowest (p<0.001).
- Common side effects included injection site pain, redness, swelling, numbness, fatigue, and headache.
- Female gender and younger age were identified as significant risk factors for developing side effects. No severe adverse events were reported.
Conclusions:
- Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines elicit varying side effect profiles across different age groups.
- Targeted monitoring of vaccine side effects, considering age and gender, is advised for optimal post-vaccination surveillance.
- Younger adults, particularly females, may require closer monitoring for potential adverse reactions.
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