Vaccine side-effects and SARS-CoV-2 infection after vaccination in users of the COVID Symptom Study app in the UK: a prospective observational study
Study (n=627,383) found systemic & local side-effects for Pfizer & AZ vaccines occurred at lower frequencies vs phase 3 trial results. The Pfizer & AZ vaccine showed a 69% and 60% reduction in infections vs unvaccinated controls at 21-44 days after the first dose respectively.
Source:
The Lancet Infectious Diseases
SPS commentary:
A related commentary highlights that this study provides valuable information to health-care professionals and the general public on vaccine reactogenicity and effectiveness in the community setting. In this era of rapid dissemination of information, good science communication has a crucial role to play in strengthening public confidence in vaccines and thus maximising vaccine uptake. The independent, community-led nature of this study might provide reassurance to members of the public who are reticent to trust the findings of pre-licensure vaccine studies involving large pharmaceutical companies. As a final point, this study is also a great example of the fruitfulness of engaging the public—as major stakeholders in scientific research.