COVID-19 vaccines coverage and effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 infection among residents in the largest Health Authority of Lazio region (Italy): a population-based cohort study.

Fano V, Coviello E, Consonni D, Agresta A, Orsini N, Crielesi A, Miglietta AS, Pasqua C, Vairo F, Vivaldi F, De Angelis G, Colaiocco G, Fabiani M

Expert Rev Vaccines - (-) 1-11 [2022-06-01; online 2022-06-01]

The waning of the protective effect of COVID-19 vaccines and timing of booster doses are debated. Population-based cohort study in the largest Health-Authority of Lazio region, Italy, on 946,156 residents aged 12+ (study period: 1 January 2021-10 January 2022). Vaccine effectiveness (VE) against any SARS-CoV-2 infection (symptomatic or asymptomatic) was estimated through multivariable negative-binomial models using unvaccinated person-time as a reference. The primary vaccination cycle was completed by 81% of residents; of these, 45% received a booster dose. Vaccine coverages were lower for foreigners, and people living in deprived areas, families with children aged 0-11, and households size 1 or 6+. Overall, VE waned from 71% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 70-73%) 1 month after the second dose to 43% (CI 41-45%) after 4 months and 24% (CI 21-27%) after 6 months, especially in the elderly aged 70+. We observed a prompt restore of VE 15-19 days after the booster dose (69%, CI 67-70%). Our results support the recommendation of a booster dose 4 months after completion of the primary cycle, giving priority to elderly and fragile individuals. The lower vaccine coverage among social disadvantaged subgroups suggests the need of targeted communication and interventions.

Category: Health

Type: Journal article

PubMed 35584901

DOI 10.1080/14760584.2022.2080057

Crossref 10.1080/14760584.2022.2080057


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