AstraZeneca Admits COVID Vaccine Can Cause Rare Side Effect: What You Need to Know
In a significant development, British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca has acknowledged in court papers that its COVID vaccine, Covishield, can lead to a rare side effect known as Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS). This admission comes as the company faces a class action lawsuit in the UK, with 51 cases filed against it alleging that the vaccine caused deaths.
Covishield, developed by AstraZeneca and produced by the Serum Institute of India, was widely administered in India as part of the country’s vaccination drive.
TTS is a serious condition characterized by blood clot formation coupled with low platelet counts. Symptoms of TTS include severe headaches, abdominal pain, leg swelling, shortness of breath, and neurological deficits. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing this rare but critical syndrome.
Medical expert Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan explained, “TTS is thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome, which is basically a clot in blood vessels of the brain or elsewhere, along with a low platelet count. It is known to occur in very rare instances following certain types of vaccines and also from other causes.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued interim emergency guidance regarding TTS in the context of COVID-19 vaccination, emphasizing the importance of increasing awareness and assisting healthcare providers in assessing and managing potential TTS cases.
As the debate surrounding vaccine safety continues, it is essential for individuals to stay informed about potential side effects and consult healthcare professionals for guidance on vaccination decisions.