Self-Reported Cardiovascular Symptoms Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Cross-Sectional Study in Algeria

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic represented an unprecedented global health challenge, leading to the accelerated development and deployment of several vaccines. Their effectiveness in reducing severe cases and mortality is well established; however, concerns have emerged regarding rare but potentially significant cardiovascular adverse events. Understanding these manifestations is essential to strengthening post-vaccination surveillance and providing clinicians with reliable data.

Objective: This study aimed to analyze self-reported cardiovascular symptoms following COVID-19 vaccination, considering vaccine type, number of doses received, and medical history. A comparative analysis with a non-vaccinated group was also performed to identify potential differences in symptom occurrence.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Wilaya of Relizane, Algeria, between February and April 2025. The survey included 148 participants: 56 individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 and 92 non-vaccinated controls. Participants were voluntarily recruited through a structured self-administered questionnaire, distributed online and in health centers and public institutions. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0, with the level of statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Among vaccinated participants, 75% reported at least one symptom suggestive of cardiovascular involvement after vaccination. The most frequently reported were chest pain (39.3%), palpitations (26.8%), shortness of breath (26.8%), and limb pain (30.4%). Symptoms typically appeared within hours (39.3%) or within a few days (28.6%) after vaccination. In most cases, they lasted only a few days (51.8%), although 14.3% of participants reported persistent symptoms at the time of the survey. Statistical analysis did not reveal any significant association between vaccine type and the occurrence of cardiovascular manifestations.

Conclusion: This exploratory study, the first of its kind in Algeria, provides valuable preliminary insights into post-vaccination cardiovascular symptoms. While no significant associations were found, the findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and the need for larger, more rigorous, and clinically documented national studies.