AstraZeneca Admits Covishield's Rare Side Effects: Blood Clots and Low Platelet Count

In a significant development, AstraZeneca, the maker of the Covishield vaccine, has acknowledged the potential side effects of its Covid-19 vaccine. The vaccine-maker has stated in court documents that Covishield can, in rare cases, lead to a condition known as Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS), which involves blood clots and low platelet count.

This admission comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Covid vaccines, with AstraZeneca already facing a major lawsuit in the UK over claims of severe injuries and deaths linked to its vaccine. Covishield, developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, has been widely used in India during the pandemic.

Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) is a rare but serious condition that can occur in very rare instances following certain types of vaccines, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It involves blood clots forming in unusual locations, such as the brain or abdomen, along with a low platelet count.

Symptoms of TTS include severe or persistent headaches, blurred vision, shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling, persistent abdominal pain, and easy bruising or tiny blood spots under the skin beyond the injection site.

Dr. Jayadevan, a healthcare professional, emphasized the rarity of TTS and highlighted the importance of Covid vaccines in preventing deaths. He also noted that while Covid vaccines have been associated with these rare immune-mediated events, the overall benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks.

As concerns regarding vaccine safety continue to be a topic of discussion, it is essential for healthcare authorities to provide clear and accurate information about potential side effects. Vaccination remains a crucial tool in the fight against Covid-19, and ensuring public confidence in vaccine safety is paramount.