On Thursday, Bharat Biotech issued a statement emphasising the safety protocols implemented during the development of its COVID-19 vaccine, amidst ongoing discussions regarding the potential side effects of Covishield. This declaration follows closely after AstraZeneca’s acknowledgment in court that its vaccine could, in extremely rare instances, lead to Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS). AstraZeneca, the creator and producer of the CovishieldCovid vaccine, recently made a startling acknowledgment about the potential occurrence of Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) as a side effect. Recent disclosures about a potential uncommon adverse reaction linked to AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine, Covishield, have raised public apprehension. A legal declaration from AstraZeneca conceded that their vaccine might induce Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS), a condition marked by clot formation and reduced platelet count. According to fact-checking conducted by The Healthy Indian Project (THIP), this assertion is only partly correct.
Nonetheless, it is crucial to comprehend the genuine risk associated with this side effect. This revelation has raised concerns regarding the vaccine’s safety. Bharat Biotech asserted, “Covaxin was meticulously developed with an unwavering priority placed on safety, followed by efficacy. It stands out as the sole COVID-19 vaccine in the government’s immunization initiative to undergo efficacy trials within India. Its licensure process encompassed evaluation in over 27,000 participants.” The company further stated that all investigations and “safety follow-up activities” have shown no link between Covaxin and occurrences of “blood clots, thrombocytopenia, TTS, VITT, pericarditis, myocarditis, and similar issues.” Following AstraZeneca’s acknowledgment of the “extremely rare” side effect, COVID-19 vaccines have re-entered political discussions. Further, Bharat Biotech also stated that all research and ongoing safety monitoring activities have consistently shown no links between Covaxin and occurrences of “blood clots, thrombocytopenia, TTS, VITT, pericarditis, myocarditis, and related issues.” The political dialogue has once again turned its focus on COVID-19 vaccines following AstraZeneca’s acknowledgment of the “extremely rare” side effect.
Several social media posts have accused the Indian government of endangering people by authorising Covishield, claiming it poses a risk of TTS. However, a fact-check conducted by The Healthy Indian Project (THIP) reveals that while there is a possibility of TTS, it is exceedingly rare. Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) is a rare but serious condition characterised by a low platelet count and the formation of blood clots. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, and headaches. AstraZeneca has acknowledged a rare association between its vaccine and TTS. Covishield, produced by the Serum Institute of India, is identical to AstraZeneca’s vaccine, both being adenovirus vector vaccines. However, TTS is not unique to AstraZeneca’s vaccine; it is also linked to Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine, as demonstrated by previous research. While mild side effects such as temporary fever and pain are common with most vaccines, they are short-lived. Healthcare professionals generally believe that the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks of side effects. The public is also urged that there is no need for panic. The reported cases of TTS in India have been limited, and this side effect is exceedingly rare, primarily occurring after the initial vaccination. Assertions suggesting that all Indians face imminent danger from TTS and blaming governmental failures are exaggerated and misleading.
According to the Healthy Indian Project (THIP), a member of the World Health Organization’s Vaccine Safety Net (VSN), which was quoted earlier, THIP has fact-checked numerous claims circulating on social media regarding COVID-19 vaccinations and found that vaccines are not harmful. Although vaccinations have proven highly effective and safe in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a remote possibility of rare adverse effects such as TTS and VITT. Early detection and intervention are crucial in managing such cases. Dr. Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National Indian Medical Association (IMA) Covid Task Force in Kerala, informed ANI, “It’s a rare occurrence following specific types of vaccines and other causes.” Moreover, reported cases of TTS typically occur within a few weeks of vaccination. Therefore, it is advisable to stay vigilant and consult a doctor if experiencing symptoms of TTS. Mild side effects after vaccination are common but temporary, while serious adverse effects are rare.
