European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

While countries including India, have taken strong measures to contain the spread of Covid-19 through better diagnostics and treatment, vaccines will provide a lasting solution by enhancing immunity and containing the disease spread. Understanding the adverse effects pattern will help make aware citizens, dismiss false rumours and reduce vaccine hesitancy. Hence the present study describes the pattern of adverse effects reported following COVID-19 vaccination among beneficiaries in Government Medical College, Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, India. Methods: A cross-sectional, observational study of pattern of adverse effects reported following COVID-19 vaccination was conducted among 540 beneficiaries in Government Medical College, Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, India from January 2021 to April 2021. Data was collected through online survey which included questions pertaining to immediate & late post vaccination experience. Results: Majority (33%) participants were 18-30 age group and (58%) were male. Overall (73%) respondents reported atleast one post-vaccination symptom. General weakness & tiredness (73.4%), pain at injection site (62%), bodyache (48%), chills (43%) & fever (39%) were the most prevalent symptoms. The frequency of symptoms among 18-30 age group was (85.9%) & more likely to be reported by women (83.2%) compared to men (65.1%). Around (36.9%) beneficiaries who had one or more comorbidities showed post vaccination symptoms. Around (82.1%) of Covishield beneficiaries developed atleast one or more symptoms post vaccination, while (60.3%) of Covaxin beneficiaries developed the same. Conclusion: Nearly two-thirds of study participants reported mild symptoms following vaccination. General weakness & tiredness, pain at injection site, bodyache, chills & fever were the most prevalent symptoms. Symptoms were more common among younger individuals. More Covishield beneficiaries developed atleast one or more symptoms post vaccination compared to Covaxin beneficiaries