Recurrence of COVID-19 Infection in Healthcare Workers after complete Vaccination

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 is a novel infection. Since its first case report in 2019, it has affected population globally. Healthcare workers are at most risk as they are in direct contact with patients.

Aim: To record recurrence of symptomatic COVID 19 after complete doses of Sinopharm vaccine among healthcare workers.

Study design: Descriptive case series

Place and duration of study: Department of Gastroenterology, Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi from 12^th December 2021 to 11^th June 2022.

Methodology: Twenty four healthcare workers and between 20-60 years who had COVID-19 infection previously and despite receiving two doses of Sinopharm vaccine, again developed symptomatic COVID-19 diseases were enrolled. The severity was graded as per guidelines provided by CEAG. The extent of exposure during work was documented.

Results: No significant association was found with any of the healthcare workers with duration and extent of vaccination. Upto 66% of the front line workers got COVID at 5^th month and no considerable variation was noticed in other months of the vaccination. Similarly, three PGs also got COVID at 5^th month and at 5^th month highest number of frontline workers got COVID-19.

Conclusion: COVID-19 reinfection can occur even after vaccination though symptoms remain relatively mild and Sinopharm provides protection against severe infection for prevention of COVID-19.

Keywords: COVID, Recurrence, Health workers, Vaccination, Infection