Abstract Inoculation of COVID-19 vaccines is an important approach to preventing SARS-CoV-2 infections and reducing the severe disease and mortality of COVID-19. The elderly, children and adolescents, pregnant women, lactating women, patients with chronic diseases and immunocompromised individuals are considered to be susceptible to and at a high risk of COVID-19. Early, safe and effective inoculation of COVID-19 vaccines is critical for the successful building of the population immune barrier against COVID-19. This review, based on data from clinical trials, summarizes the safety and efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines among special populations, so as to provide insights into COVID-19 vaccination among special populations.