# Hypertension attenuates COVID-19 vaccine protection in elderly patients: a retrospective cohort study

## TL;DR

This study shows that vaccination improves outcomes for elderly hospitalized patients during the pandemic, but its benefits are reduced in those with hypertension.

## Contribution

The study reveals that hypertension significantly attenuates the protective effects of the vaccine in elderly patients.

## Key findings

- Vaccinated elderly patients had a 2.3-fold higher likelihood of prognostic improvement.
- Hypertension reduced the improvement rate by 67.5% in vaccinated elderly patients.
- Vaccinated patients showed lower Modified Early Warning Scores and reduced mortality.

## Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted elderly populations, particularly those with comorbidities. This study evaluated the effects of COVID-19 vaccination on 193 hospitalized elderly patients (≥ 60 years) in Macao. Vaccination was suggestively associated with a 2.3-fold higher likelihood of prognostic improvement (adjusted OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 0.980-5.940, P = 0.065), while hypertension significantly reduced the improvement rate by 67.5% (P = 0.039). Vaccinated patients also exhibited lower Modified Early Warning Scores and reduced mortality. These findings underscore the protective role of vaccination in improving prognosis among high-risk elderly patients and highlight the need for tailored strategies for those with comorbidities.

Impact of COVID-19 vaccination on elderly patients with comorbidities. Study of 193 patients over 60 shows vaccination improves prognosis (90.9% vs. 80%) and reduces mortality (9.1% vs. 20%). Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, renal failure, and pulmonary disease effects noted. MEWS score indicates significant differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated. Odds analysis highlights vaccination's benefit but not complete risk mitigation in high-risk subgroups.