Prospective online survey: SARS-CoV-2 vaccination readiness in people with MS

ABSTRACT

Background: At the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the German MS-Registry and the German Multiple Sclerosis Society, started a survey to examine the impact on the behavioral changes of people with MS (PwMS) and the count of SARSCoV- 2 infections, following recommendations of the global data sharing initiative. In prospect of a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 in Nov-2020, the survey was redesigned to address the participant's attitude towards a SARS-CoV-2-vaccination. Objective: We aim to provide new insights into the vaccination attitude of PwMS. Results: By January 31, 2021, 914 PwMS (77% female) participated in the survey. The average age was 48 (±11.8) years. 72% suffered from relapsing (RR) and 28% from progressive (PP/SP) MS. 71% were on DMT at the time of the survey. 56% of the PwMS wanted to be vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2, 32% considered to be vaccinated, and 12% did not want to be vaccinated. Female PwMS (N=704) 53% wanted to be vaccinated, 34% considered to be vaccinated and 13% (N=94) did not want to be vaccinated. Male PwMS (N=210) 64% wanted to be vaccinated, 28% considered to be vaccinated and 9% did not want to be vaccinated. The highest willingness to be vaccinated was in the age group >65 years old (N=62) with 63%. In the age groups 35-44 years (N=227), 45-54 years (N=252) and 55-64 years (N=232), the willingness proportion in PwMS was over 55%. Under the age of 35 (N=141), the willingness proportion in PwMS was 46%. Objections against a vaccination 72% feared possible side and long-term effects, 11% doubted the vaccination's efficacy and 18% had other concerns. These 'other' concerns included questions towards compatibility of vaccination with current treatment, the own immune response or the risk of a vaccination induced relapse. Many PwMS mentioned that they still have some questions about the vaccine's mode of action. 73% of the female participants were concerned about side and long-term effects, 18% had other concerns, and 9% wondered whether a vaccination would be effective. On the other hand, 68% of male participants were concerned about side and long-term effects, 13% had other concerns and 19% wondered whether a vaccination is effective (χ2-test,p<0.001). Conclusion: At the time of the survey 88% [CI 85-90%] of PwMS were positive towards being vaccinated which is significantly higher compared to a Germany-wide survey of the general population from November 2021 in which vaccination readiness was 71% [CI 68-74%], p<0.001.