Article
The impact of COVID-19 vaccination on the social participation of immunocompromised persons – results of a multicenter observational study
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Published: | September 30, 2022 |
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Background and status of (inter)national research: Immunocompromised persons are at an increased risk for a severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and their safety behaviors may influence their social participation. Vaccinated persons have a lower incidence of infection and severe disease when infected compared to non-vaccinated persons. Therefore, their behavior may change and their social participation may increase after a complete vaccination.
Research question and objective: The aim of this study was to explore social participation of immunocompromised persons before and after complete COVID-19 vaccination.
Method or hypothesis: Between March and September 2021, 274 immunocompromised participants were recruited. Survey data were collected at baseline and follow-up from 194 participants including the Index for the Assessment of Health Impairments [IMET], Patient Health Questionnaire-4 [PHQ-4], subjective health status and quality of life. At baseline, participants were not yet completely vaccinated. Complete vaccination was achieved prior to the follow-up questionnaire.
Results: IMET scores decreased significantly at follow-up, indicating a higher social participation after complete vaccination. PHQ-4, subjective health status and quality of life did not differ between baseline and follow-up. There were no significant differences across sociodemographic factors. Significant PHQ-4 differences were observed regarding the population size of the participants´ home community
Discussion: Social participation of immunocompromised persons in our study increased after COVID-19 vaccination. Therefore, social participation should be explored further, especially with regards to the impact of vaccination on groups with a high health risk.
Practical implications: Immunosuppressed individuals must be adequately informed of the potentially limited protection afforded by COVID-19 vaccination.
Appeal for practice (science and/or care) in one sentence: Increased social participation was observed after COVID-19 vaccination despite uncertain vaccine protection in immunosuppressed individuals.
Funding: Sonstige Förderung; DEFEAT Corona project, funded by the European Fund for Regional Development (EFRD) (Funding No: ZW7-85152953)