Changing characteristics over time of individuals receiving COVID-19 vaccines in Denmark: A population-based descriptive study of vaccine uptake
Abstract
Aims
The Danish authorities implemented a differential rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines where individuals at high risk of COVID-19 were prioritized. We describe the temporal uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and changing characteristics of vaccine recipients in Denmark.
Methods
Using the Danish national health care registries, we identified all Danish residents ≥5 years of age who received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine from December 27 th , 2020, to January 29 th , 2022. We charted the daily number of newly vaccinated individuals and the cumulative vaccine coverage over time, stratified by vaccine type, age groups, and vaccination priority groups. In addition, we described characteristics of vaccine recipients during 2-months-intervals and in vaccination priority groups.
Results
By January 29 th , 2022, 86%, 84% and 63% of Danish residents ≥5 years had received a first, second, and third dose, respectively, of a COVID-19 vaccine, most commonly the BNT162b2 vaccine (84% of vaccinated individuals). Vaccine uptake ranged from 48% in 5-11-year-olds up to 98% in 65-74-year-olds. Individuals vaccinated before June 2021 were older (median age 61-70 years vs. 10-35 years in later periods) and had more comorbidities such as hypertension (22-28% vs. 0.77-2.8% in later periods), chronic lung disease (9.4-15% vs. 3.7-4.6% in later periods), and diabetes (9.3-12% vs. 0.91-2.4% in later periods).
Conclusions
The uptake of the COVID-19 vaccines is high in Denmark. We document substantial changes over time in characteristics of vaccine recipients which should be considered when designing and interpreting studies on the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines.
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