High Primary COVID-19 Vaccine Series Completion by People Who Inject Drugs When Colocating Services at a Syringe Services Van

J Addict Med. 2023 Sep-Oct;17(5):e287-e289. doi: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000001164. Epub 2023 Mar 10.

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to describe the impact of colocating COVID-19 vaccinations with local syringe service programs on vaccine completion among people who inject drugs.

Methods: Data were derived from 6 community-based clinics. People who inject drugs who received at least one COVID-19 vaccine from a colocated clinic partnering with a local syringe service program were included in the study. Vaccine completion was abstracted from electronic medical records; additional vaccinations were abstracted using health information exchanges embedded within the electronic medical records.

Results: Overall, 142 individuals with a mean age of 51 years, predominantly male (72%) and Black, non-Hispanic (79%) received COVID-19 vaccines. More than half elected to receive a 2-dose mRNA vaccine (51.4%). Eighty-five percent completed a primary series, and 71% of those who received a mRNA vaccine completed the 2-dose series. Booster uptake was 34% in those completing a primary series.

Conclusions: Colocated clinics are an effective means of reaching vulnerable populations. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and need for annual booster vaccines arises, it is important to bolster public support and funding to continue low-barrier preventive clinics colocated with harm reduction services for this population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Drug Users*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pandemics
  • mRNA Vaccines

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • mRNA Vaccines