Differences by region of birth in SARS-CoV-2 vaccine coverage and positive SARS-CoV-2 test among 400 000 healthcare workers and the general population in Sweden

Abstract

Background: Globally SARS-CoV-2 vaccine coverage varies among healthcare workers.

Methods: Based on Swedish registers, data on vaccination status as of 31 October 2021 were analysed for all adults aged 35-64 years, 3 861 565 individuals, in Sweden by healthcare worker occupation group and region of birth.

Results: For both men and women vaccination coverage decreased in a graded manner by healthcare worker group with physicians having the highest coverage (96%), followed by registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nurse aides. Coverage also differed by region of birth for all groups of healthcare workers and non-healthcare workers with those born in Sweden with Sweden born parents having the highest coverage, and those born outside Sweden but within EU the lowest.

Conclusion: The difference in vaccine coverage by region of birth among healthcare workers, regardless of whether it results from socioeconomic inequalities or sociocultural beliefs, puts them at a great occupational hazard and increased risk of nosocomial transmission.

Keywords: Country of birth; Covid19; Epidemiology; HESITANCY; Healthcare worker; Register; SARS-CoV-2; Uptake; Vaccination status; Vaccine; Vaccine Coverage.