Is Covishield risky? The Claims
Various social media posts have blamed the Indian government for permitting Covishield, alleging it puts people at risk of TTS. However, a fact-check by The Healthy Indian Project (THIP) reveals that while there is a risk of TTS, it’s exceptionally rare.
What’s TTS?
Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) is a serious condition characterized by low platelet count and blood clot formation. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, headaches, and easy bruising. AstraZeneca has acknowledged a rare link between its vaccine and TTS.
Connection with Covishield
Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India, is identical to AstraZeneca’s vaccine. Both are adenovirus vector vaccines with reported 60-80% efficacy against Covid-19.
Is TTS side effect only linked to Covishield?
TTS is not exclusive to AstraZeneca’s vaccine; it’s also associated with Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine. Previous research has highlighted this connection. Mild side effects are relatively common with most vaccines, such as temporary fever and pain. However, these effects are short-lived. Medical professionals generally believe that the benefits of vaccines far outweigh their side effects.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) website, “Vaccines are very safe. Like any medicine, vaccines can cause side effects. However, these are usually very minor and of short duration, such as a sore arm or a mild fever. More serious side effects are possible but extremely rare.”
Should you be worried?
To a certain extent, yes. However, there is no cause for alarm. It’s important to note that Covishield, the Indian iteration of AstraZeneca’s vaccine, is the most widely administered vaccine in India. Reported cases of TTS in India have been limited. If there were widespread fatalities due to TTS post-vaccination, they would have garnered media attention.Additionally, it’s crucial to understand that Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), including vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), is an exceptionally rare side effect, primarily observed after initial vaccination.
Assertions suggesting that all Indians face imminent peril from TTS and attributing it to governmental failure are gross exaggerations and misleading.
The Healthy Indian Project (THIP), a member of the World Health Organization’s Vaccine Safety Net (VSN), offers accurate vaccine-related information. THIP has fact-checked numerous claims circulating on social media regarding COVID-19 vaccinations, refuting assertions that vaccines are toxic, harmful to the brain, or more detrimental than preventive.
What should I do if develop rare side effects?
Although vaccinations have proven highly effective and safe in curbing the COVID-19 pandemic, there exists a remote chance of rare adverse effects like TTS and VITT. Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing such cases.
Dr. Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National Indian Medical Association (IMA) Covid Task Force in Kerala, stated, “It’s a rare occurrence following specific types of vaccines and other causes.” Moreover, reported cases of TTS usually manifest within a few weeks of vaccination. Hence, it’s advisable to remain vigilant and consult a doctor if experiencing symptoms of TTS.
Mild side effects post-vaccination are common but temporary. Serious adverse effects are rare.
