The Untoward Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines and Determinant Factors among Vaccinated Healthcare Workers at Public Health Facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Objective: The overall objective of this study was to investigate the adverse effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, and their associated factors among vaccinated health care workers working (HCWs) at public health facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: 2021/22. Material and Methods: This study was implemented on 542 study participants found in Addis-Ababa city administration public health facilities, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A quantitative approach and facility-based cross-sectional study design, using proportionate allocation of the samples among each health facility, was adopted. The study used a questionnaire as a tool to collect data. Results: Out of 542 samples, 526 study subjects participated (61.5% females): response rate was 97.05%. The proportion of HCWs having had post-COVID-19 vaccine adverse effects outcome among the study participants was 319 (60.6%, 95% confidence interval: 56.7%-64.6%). Logistic regression analysis results revealed that the odds of having history of allergic reaction to any vaccine were found 11.108 times higher (p-value<0.05), and the odds of having co-morbidity were found to have 2.299 times higher (p-value<0.05) determinant effects to develop and significantly associate with the post-COVID-19 vaccine adverse effects. Conclusion: Experiences of post-COVID-19 vaccine adverse effects is higher and more common. Following side effects, a significant number of study participants have also undertaken treatment options to reduce post-vaccine discomforts/ pains. Additionally, individuals that have history of allergic reactions to any vaccine and co-morbidities are positively associated with post-vaccine side effects. Therefore, even though post-COVID-19 vaccine side effects are very common, the advantages of taking the vaccine outweigh its disadvantages, and vaccinated individuals can seek treatment options when they experience severe post-vaccine side effects.