Introduction: Hesitation and opposition to COVID-19 vaccines have hindered efficient herd immunity, thus control of severe forms.

Aims and scope: To record changes in attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccination of both vaccinated (Vx) and unvaccinated patients (NVx) after a hospitalization for COVID-19.

Material and Methods: During winter 2021-2022, patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in pulmonology, infectious diseases and intensive care units were asked to answer a survey at 3 (M3) and 6 months (M6) after discharge. Both were asked about their own and their families? attitudes toward vaccination. NVx were also asked about factors influencing their mindset and arguments that would have convinced them to vaccinate prior to infection.

Results: Out of 170 patients contacted (Vx, n=77; NVx, n=81; excluded, n=12), 30 Vx and 23 NVx responded, inconsistently to the different questions, and different time points. At M6, 15 of 17 Vx (88%) remained in favor of the vaccine, only one reported being opposed. Among NVx initially opposed to vaccination, 2/14 (14%) were favorable at M6, 6 (43%) were hesitant, 6 (43%) remained opposed. Regardless, 5 NVx (38%) reported having received the recommended booster vaccination. Most common barriers to vaccination were fear of adverse events (for 14/16 NVx, 87%) or doubt about efficacy (15/17, 88%). More accurate information about COVID-19 severity (11/15, 74%) was also a valuable argument for vaccination promotion.

Conclusion: Although only 14% of NVx reported a favorable mindset to vaccination at M6 after hospitalization for COVID-19, more than 1/3 received booster vaccination. Different communication strategies might encourage these patients to vaccinate.