Comparative Study of COVID-19 Vaccination Frequency Between Chronic Psychiatric Patients and the General Population

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 vaccination rates among individuals with mental illness have raised concerns due to these individuals' increased vulnerability to infection and complications. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the frequency of COVID-19 vaccination between individuals with chronic psychiatric conditions and the general population. Methods: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted, including patients with psychiatric disorders and a comparison group without psychiatric problems. Data were collected between May 2023 and August 2023 using a simple random sampling method. Participants were diagnosed with psychiatric disorders according to DSM-5 criteria and completed a questionnaire. Results: In a study of 137 participants, including 67 healthy individuals, 38 with schizophrenia, and 32 with affective disorders, psychiatric patients had lower full vaccination rates (P < 0.001). Patients with schizophrenia received fewer doses than healthy individuals and those with affective disorders (coefficient = -0.54, P = 0.007). Even after adjusting for demographics, the relationship between schizophrenia and vaccination rates remained significant. Conclusions: Chronic psychiatric patients have lower COVID-19 vaccination rates compared to the general population. Targeted vaccination programs and improved access to psychiatric healthcare facilities are crucial for addressing the pandemic's disproportionate impact on this vulnerable group.