First-Generation SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines: A Comparative Analysis between Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Hospitalized...

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants possess mutations in the spike protein, potentially evading immunity from initial vaccines and causing breakthrough infections.
• Understanding the impact of vaccination on hospitalized patients is crucial for managing the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify socio-demographic factors, clinical features, and outcomes in vaccinated versus unvaccinated hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To assess the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination against severe outcomes in the context of emerging variants.

Main Methods:

• A comparative analysis of socio-demographic details, clinical features, and outcomes was conducted on 299 hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
• Patients were categorized into fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated, and unvaccinated groups.
• Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 17.

Main Results:

• Of 299 hospitalized patients, 58.5% received a single dose, 27.4% a double dose, and 41.5% were unvaccinated.
• While infection incidence showed some associations with professional status and symptoms, the risk of in-hospital mortality was significantly lower in vaccinated patients (0.6%) compared to unvaccinated (3.2%).
• In-hospital mortality was linked to older age and comorbidities like asthma, diabetes, and hypertension.

Conclusions:

• Full or partial COVID-19 vaccination appears effective in preventing in-hospital mortality among patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 variants.
• Vaccination remains a critical strategy for mitigating severe disease and death from COVID-19, even with evolving viral strains.