ABSTRACT
Objective: We aimed at assessing tolerance and impact of various vaccines against Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) on seizures, particularly in people with epilepsy (PWE). We also sought to identify the barriers to vaccination and hesitancy among unvaccinated PWE. Background: The safety and tolerability of the various types of COVID-19 vaccines have been a cause of distress among PWE. In order to assess these concerns, we partnered with the Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana (EFKY) and designed survey for PWE. Design/Methods: An online anonymous 24-item survey was designed and distributed by the EFKY via an online link and a quick response (QR) code. This survey included questions pertaining to patient's demographics, seizure status, type of vaccination and status, as well as side effects experienced. In addition, we investigated barriers and hesitancy to vaccination. The survey is currently ongoing. Results: Twenty-seven adult PWE completed the survey thus far, and among them 24 were vaccinated. In terms of side effects, sixteen (60%) participants reported common vaccination side effects like headache, malaise, fatigue, fever, and body aches. None of the vaccinated participants have reported seizure occurrence in the first 24-72 hours post vaccination or worsening of their baseline seizure frequency. The 3 unvaccinated participants reported a lack of interest in vaccination. None of the surveyed individuals till date reported a prior COVID infection. We are anticipating additional participants to complete the survey before final data analysis. Conclusions: Our preliminary data suggests that vaccination against COVID-19 in PWE in Kentucky appears to be overall well tolerated without evidence of seizure exacerbation. The majority of the surveyed PWE were vaccinated. The survey is currently still ongoing.