Perceived Safety of COVID-19 Vaccine among some Residents in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

Summary:

Due to the emergence of Severe-acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, vaccines were recommended and adopted in most regions globally. The study assessed the pattern of perceived safety among some residents in Benin City, Nigeria. Structured questionnaire that had safety profile components were distributed randomly among individuals that took (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine after ethical approval. Data were summarized and analyzed. Out of the 189 respondents, male/female ratio was 1:1.4, most respondents were within 26-49 years. Preventive herbs were used by 64(33.86%) and were used as decoction by 31(37.80%). Azithromycin was commonly used by 30(36.59%) respondents and 186(98.41%) had heard of SARS-CoV-2) vaccine. The commonest source of information of SARS-CoV-2 infection was television/radio 130(38.58%) and 165(87.30%) took the vaccine and 152(92.12%) had theirs in government hospitals. Side effects were experienced by 105(63.64%). The common class of organ/system and reported types of side effects were Gastro-intestinal (Nausea/vomiting) 24(44.44%), Central nervous system (Headache) 65(26.42%), Skeletal muscle effects (Muscle pain 53(31.54%); (Swelling at the site of injection 23(13.69%). Skin effect (Numbness at the site of injection 15(44.18%). Eye (Blurred vision/itching 4(30.77%). Heart (Increased heart beat 13(72.22%), Respiratory (Difficulty in breathing 5(41.67%) and (Cough 7(58.33%). Severity in 25(17.61%) respondents. Doses were completed by 112(68.89%) respondents. All respondents had vaccine regimen freely. Convincing others to take was claimed by 74(70.48%) respondents. Prior to taking vaccine, 16(15.53%) had health challenges and 10(62.50%) existing high blood pressure. Following the pattern of perceived safety, it is therefore recommended that individuals willing to take the vaccine should be closely monitored due to variation in sensitivity.