Vaccines Against SARS-CoV-2 and their Effects on Mortality in Transplant Patients: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis

• Published in: Brazilian Journal of Transplantation 2024-08, Vol.27 (1)
• Main Authors: Rocha, Arthur, Milan, Eveline Pipolo, Caminha, Renan Oliveira de Carvalho, Paiva, Daniel Felipe Fernandes
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2764-1589; 2764-1589
• DOI: 10.53855/bjt.v27i1.613_ENG

Objectives: With the advancement of the pandemic and better knowledge of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), new ways of tackling this disease have come to light. Therefore, we propose this systematic review to better understand the action of vaccines in combating mortality caused by this virus, especially in transplant patients. Methods: In this systematic review with meta-analysis, the reviewers analyzed 389 eligible articles according to the criteria used and blindly selected the studies that provided data on transplant patients and mortality, resulting in 15 works included in the study. The screening results were added to a spreadsheet, and data was compiled. Results: Of the 15 articles included, it was possible to observe a significant drop in the overall mortality rates of vaccinated patients, except in studies that used the inactivated virus immunizer. Furthermore, the mortality of infected patients, even after vaccination, remained close to that of the unvaccinated group, as did the need for mechanical ventilation. Conclusion: Immunization of transplant patients can significantly reduce mortality rates for this portion of the population. However, as they have a reduced seroconversion rate, different ways of achieving an adequate immune response must be considered