Comparison of Adverse Effects of COVID-19 Vaccines Among Elderly: Pfizer/BioNTech Versus CoronaVac

Abstract

PURPOSE: The SARS-CoV-2 infection has triggered the Covid-19 pandemic with enormous public health and economic consequences. The safety and efficacy of currently available Covid-19 vaccines have been demonstrated in few studies; however, further information on specific high-risk groups like the elderly with co-morbidities is needed. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to compare the adverse side effects of two different Covid-19 vaccines (RNA-based Pfizer/BioNTech and inactivated CoronaVac) among the elderly with co-morbidities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We selected a total of 800 participants 65 years or older who received either one of the vaccines. We collected data on the possible side effects that have been previously attributed to coronavirus vaccination via quantitative telephone interviews. RESULTS: We found that both CoronaVac and Pfizer/BioNTech were safe in adults over 65 years old, even with co-morbidities. The most common side effects were pain on the injection site and fatigue. Adverse effects, particularly allergic reactions, were higher in Pfizer/BioNTech vaccinated group compared to the CoronaVac group. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, even with co-morbidities, both vaccines were well-tolerated among the elderly. As this specific group was largely excluded from the previous trials, we believe that this study may have a contributing impact on vaccine acceptance and health policy decision-making.