U.S. research shows individuals with history of mental illnesses at a higher risk of COVID-19 infections after vaccination

The University of California San Francisco posits individuals with psychiatric disorders should be among the groups to be prioritized for booster vaccines and other preventative efforts. The research found that for patients under 65, the risk of developing a COVID-19 breakthrough infection was up to 11% higher for those who were diagnosed with a psychiatric condition. For patients 65 and over, the study found that the risk of having a breakthrough infection was 24% higher among people with a history of substance abuse, 23% higher for those with psychotic disorder, 16% higher for bipolar disorder, 14% for adjustment disorder and 12% for anxiety. The lead researcher suggest a possible explanation could be due to waning immunity exacerbated by these mental health conditions.