SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Uptake among Patients with Chronic Liver Disease: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in Hebei Province, China

Abstract

Chronic liver disease (CLD) patients have higher mortality and hospitalization rates after infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This study aimed to explore SARS-CoV-2 vaccine perceptions, side effects, factors associated with nonvaccination and attitudes toward fourth-dose vaccine among CLD patients. The differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups among 1491 CLD patients and the risk factors associated with nonvaccination status were analyzed. In total, 1239 CLD patients were immunized against SARS-CoV-2. CLD patients have a high level of trust in the government and clinicians and were likely to follow their recommendations for vaccination. Reasons reported for nonvaccination were mainly concerns about the vaccines affecting their ongoing treatments and the fear of adverse events. However, only 4.84% of patients reported mild side effects. Risk factors influencing nonvaccination included being older in age, having cirrhosis, receiving treatments, having no knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine considerations and not receiving doctors’ positive advice on vaccination. Furthermore, 20.6% of completely vaccinated participants refused the fourth dose because they were concerned about side effects and believed that the complete vaccine was sufficiently protective. Our study proved that SARS-CoV-2 vaccines were safe for CLD patients. Our findings suggest that governments and health workers should provide more SARS-CoV-2 vaccination information and customize strategies to improve vaccination coverage and enhance vaccine protection among the CLD population.

COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and its association with knowledge and attitude among patients with chronic diseases in Ethiopia

“…Knowledge and attitudes of chronic disease patients about the COVID-19 vaccine, have an impact on whether or not they accept the vaccination. 17 , 18 To increase their acceptance rate, it is essential to inform patients with chronic diseases about the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccination. 19 The COVID-19 Vaccination can help protect people with chronic diseases from serious complications and hospital stays.…”

“… 20 It is a crucial weapon in the fight against COVID-19. 17 In long-term view, COVID-19 Vaccination is a great solution, particularly for populations with chronic health conditions. 21 However, widespread hesitancy in the use of vaccines can hinder the adoption and efficacy of vaccines, as it encompasses a variety of attitudes and beliefs about immunization that lead to delay or downright avoiding vaccination.…”