RESUMO
Aim: This 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. Method: A 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. Result: Out of 3,766 participants, the majority were female (56.7â¯%) and aged 18-24â¯years (53.3â¯%). Most participants had a university-level qualification (71.2â¯%) and were related to the medical sector (53.2â¯%). A significant proportion (47.0â¯%) received AstraZeneca, Sputnik Light (22.1â¯%) and Sinopharm (14.7â¯%). Common side effects included sleepiness and lethargy (50.0â¯%), fever and chills (45.0â¯%), and pain/swelling at the injection site (35.9â¯%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male (OR: 0.57, CI: 0.48-0.68) and participants aged 45-65â¯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. Conclusion: Our 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.
