Anxiety and depression among medical staff facing SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in China.

Background: SARS-COV-2 vaccination is being carried out worldwide. However, little is known about the effect of SARS-COV-2 vaccination on psychological problems faced by the medical staff. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and factors contributing to anxiety and depression among medical staff facing SARS-COV-2 vaccination.

Methods: The GAD-7 and the PHQ-9 scales were used to investigate the anxiety and depression among participants involved in SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Multivariate logistics regression analysis method was used to assess the risk factors related to anxiety or depression.

Results: A total of 6984 people responded to all the surveyed questions in our study, including 2707 medical staff and 4277 nonmedical staff. Of the participants, 680 reported anxiety, while 1354 reported depression. Higher anxiety levels were observed among medical staff (13.1 % vs. 7.6 % among the non-medical staff). Participants suffered from depression with higher numbers among medical staff (24.7 % vs. 16.0 % among the non-medical staff). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that female medical staff was at higher risk of anxiety and depression compared to their male counterparts (OR = 1.497; OR = 1.417). Pregnancy intention increased the risk of anxiety and depression among medical staff (OR = 1.601; OR = 1.724).

Limitations: Our findings may not be extrapolated to other countries.

Conclusion: Medical staff facing SARS-CoV-2 vaccination were more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression, especially the females planning for pregnancy. These results should assist in updating intervention guidelines for the mental health of medical staff facing vaccination.