Assessment of breakthrough infections among post-vaccinated healthcare workers in a Tertiary Dental Hospital in New Delhi, India

BackgroundCOVID-19 vaccination in India has been rolled out on a national level, with healthcare workers (HCWs) becoming the first recipient of both Covishield and Covaxin. However, concerns over efficacy of vaccines have been much debated. This study highlights COVID-19 infections among vaccinated HCWs in a teaching dental hospital in Delhi, India. MethodologyThis cross-sectional survey was conducted using a pretested, validated, self-instituted questionnaire assessing COVID-19 like symptoms and/or confirmed infections among partially or fully vaccinated HCWs (all faculty, staff and students) of the institute from 16th January to 31st July 2021. The number of infections was also matched with hospital records. ResultsOut of 397 HCWs, 386 (97.2%) were vaccinated and 355 (89.4%) had received both doses. COVID-19 like symptoms appeared in 21 HCWs (5.4%) post any dose of vaccine. Symptomatic breakthrough infections >14 days after second dose occurred was seen in 16 HCWs (4.5%). Except one (required hospitalization), all other cases had mild infection. No significant difference was observed between Covishield and Covaxin. Most common symptom was fever and body ache. ConclusionThe study identifies the possibility of breakthrough infections among vaccinated HCWs, and ensures the impact of vaccination in limiting disease severity. The findings suggest that COVID-19 preventive measures should be continued even among vaccinated individuals.