Willingness of people living with HIV to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose: a multicenter cross-sectional study in China

Abstract

BackgroundThe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly affected the global population, with People Living with HIV (PLWH) being particularly vulnerable due to their compromised immune systems. Although vaccination is a crucial preventative measure against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, little is understood about the willingness of PLWH to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose and the factors that may influence this decision. This study investigates the willingness of PLWH in China to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose and its influencing factors, comparing these with a group of healthy individuals.MethodsA multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted across five Chinese cities, namely, Beijing, Tianjin, Zhengzhou, Hohhot, and Harbin. Participants were recruited through five community-based organizations. Data were collected via participant self-administered questionnaires included demographic information, willingness to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose, and knowledge about HIV and COVID-19 vaccination. Factors influencing vaccination willingness were identified using multivariable logistic regression analyzes.ResultsA total of 156 PLWH and 151 healthy individuals were included in the study. After adjusting for potential confounders, it was found that PLWH demonstrated a lower willingness to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose compared to healthy individuals (77.6% vs. 88.7%, p = 0.009). Lower willingness was associated with HIV positive status (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 0.39, 95%CI: 0.20, 0.75), perceived barriers (AOR: 0.05, 95%CI: 0.01, 0.26), and perceived severity (AOR: 0.32, 95%CI: 0.12, 0.90).ConclusionPLWH in China demonstrated a lower willingness to receive a second COVID-19 booster dose compared to healthy individuals. The findings suggest that perceptions and understanding of the COVID-19 vaccination and its necessity for protection against SARS-CoV-2 could influence this willingness. Efforts should be made to strengthen and disseminate knowledge about HIV and COVID-19 vaccinations among this population. In addition, developing interventions and policies that target specific subgroups and address misconceptions about vaccination could be instrumental in improving vaccination rates among PLWH.

Safety and immunogenicity of homologous prime‐boost CoronaVac vaccine in people living with HIV in China: A multicenter prospective cohort study

“…Hence, understanding the impact of booster doses on the immune response in PLWH is crucial for optimizing further vaccine strategies and ensuring adequate protection. Moreover, the acceptance of COVID‐19 vaccine is generally low while the risk of infection is high in people with immunodeficiency 25,26 . Of note, concerns for the performance of vaccine is an essential element to affect the willingness of booster doses vaccination.…”

“…Moreover, the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine is generally low while the risk of infection is high in people with immunodeficiency. 25,26 Of note, concerns for the performance of vaccine is an essential element to affect the willingness of booster doses vaccination. Hence, understanding the immunogenicity and safety profiles for the vaccination among PLWH in the real-world would contribute to improving the coverage of vaccination.…”