Short-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines among healthcare workers: a multicenter study in Iran

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Public Health
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Widespread concern exists regarding COVID-19 vaccine efficacy and potential side effects.
• Understanding short-term adverse events is crucial for public trust and vaccine uptake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the short-term side effects of four COVID-19 vaccines (Sputnik V, Sinopharm, Oxford-AstraZeneca, Covaxin) in Iranian healthcare workers.
• To provide data that can help alleviate vaccine hesitancy related to safety concerns.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter study involving 1575 healthcare workers (HCWs) in Iran.
• Data collection on side effects following the first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccines.
• Analysis of the prevalence and types of reported side effects based on vaccine type.

Main Results:

• 84.6% of HCWs reported at least one side effect after the first vaccine dose, and 72.9% after the second.
• Common first-dose side effects included injection site pain (61.7%), myalgia (51.8%), and muscle pain (50.9%).
• Most reported second-dose side effects were injection site pain (26.8%), myalgia (15.8%), fever (10.3%), headache (9.9%), and chills (9.2%).

Conclusions:

• Different COVID-19 vaccines may present varying side effect profiles after the first and second doses.
• Findings contribute to addressing vaccine hesitancy by providing evidence on vaccine safety.
• The study highlights the importance of monitoring and communicating vaccine side effects.