Assessing the prevalence and patterns of COVID-19 vaccine side effects among Syrian adults: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

AimThis study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of COVID-19 vaccine side effects among Syrian adults, with a focus on the AstraZeneca and Sputnik Light vaccines, in light of the low vaccination rate in Syria (below 18%) attributed to fear of side effects. MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted between January and May 2022, using probability-based and convenient sampling strategies. Data was collected through online, paper, and face-to-face questionnaires that included demographic and vaccine-related questions. ResultOut of 3,766 participants, the majority were female (56.7 %) and aged 18–24 years (53.3 %). Most participants had a university-level qualification (71.2 %) and were related to the medical sector (53.2 %). A significant proportion (47.0 %) received AstraZeneca, Sputnik Light (22.1 %) and Sinopharm (14.7 %). Common side effects included sleepiness and lethargy (50.0 %), fever and chills (45.0 %), and pain/swelling at the injection site (35.9 %). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male (OR: 0.57, CI: 0.48–0.68) and participants aged 45–65 years (OR: 0.53, CI: 0.40–0.70) were less likely to experience side effects. Participants who believed COVID-19 posed a high threat to their personal life had higher odds of side effects (OR: 1.74, CI: 1.22–2.46). Vaccine type was also associated with side effects, with Sputnik Light (OR: 2.52, CI: 1.85–3.46) and AstraZeneca (OR: 1.61, CI: 1.26–2.05) having increased odds. ConclusionOur study found that COVID-19 vaccines are well tolerated among the Syrian population, with short-term side effects that typically resolve within three days. These findings are expected to bolster vaccination rates through enhanced public confidence and acceptance.