Vaccinated with AstraZeneca - Covishield: Should You be worried?
ADITYA RAWAT
MBA graduate from the UK with over 9 years of experience in content writing, communications, market research, customer service, and client management with Deloitte, Moody's Research and HCL-British Telecom.
Author - Aditya Rawat, MBA, Coventry University, UK (Ex. Deloitte, MOODY's Research, and HCL-British Telecom)
Please Note: The views expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not represent any organization or body. The facts & data shared are collected from a vast range of authenticated sources.
The recent acknowledgment by AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of the Covishield Covid vaccine, regarding a potential link between their vaccine and Thrombosis with Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) has sent ripples of concern through the public. This has led to a flurry of questions and anxieties, particularly among those who have received the Covishield vaccine.
This brings us to the question "Is Covishield inherently risky?" Should we be worried about its safety? This blog aims to address these concerns by providing a clear and evidence-based understanding of TTS, its association with Covishield, and the crucial steps to take in case of experiencing any concerning side effects.
What Triggered this Situation?
AstraZeneca, a British-Swedish pharmaceutical company, recently admitted in court documents that its COVID-19 vaccine may lead to side effects in "very rare cases." The vaccine, developed by AstraZeneca and Oxford University, could cause a rare side effect called Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS). This is a result of an ongoing legal battle initiated by Jamie Scott, who suffered a permanent brain injury after receiving the AstraZeneca vaccine in April 2021.
Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) Explained
Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the formation of blood clots (thrombosis) within unusual locations in the body, coupled with a significant decrease in platelet count (thrombocytopenia). This can lead to a range of serious complications, including:
Symptoms of TTS typically manifest within a few days to a few weeks after receiving a particular type of vaccine, including the AstraZeneca/Covishield and Johnson & Johnson's Janssen vaccines.
These symptoms may include:
The Connection Between Covishield and TTS?
Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute of India, is essentially the same vaccine as AstraZeneca's. Both are adenovirus vector vaccines, which utilize a harmless, weakened adenovirus to deliver genetic material that instructs the body to produce proteins specific to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, triggering an immune response. While this technology has proven highly effective in combating COVID-19, a rare link with TTS has been identified.
It's crucial to remember that the occurrence of TTS remains exceptionally rare. While acknowledging the potential risk is vital, it's important to maintain perspective. Reported cases of TTS in India, despite the widespread administration of Covishield, have been limited.
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Addressing Misinformation and Fear Mongering
Social media has unfortunately become a breeding ground for misinformation surrounding the Covishield vaccine and TTS. Exaggerated claims alleging that all Covishield recipients face imminent danger from TTS and attributing it to governmental negligence are demonstrably false and often fueled by panic rather than scientific evidence.
Fact-checking organizations like The Healthy Indian Project (THIP), a member of the World Health Organization's Vaccine Safety Net (VSN), have diligently debunked such claims. Their analysis of COVID-19 vaccinations has consistently highlighted the overall safety and efficacy of vaccines like Covishield, emphasizing the immense benefits they provide in curbing the pandemic.
Maintaining Vigilance and Seeking Medical Attention
While the likelihood of encountering TTS after Covishield vaccination is exceedingly low, it's still advisable to remain vigilant, especially within the first few weeks after receiving the vaccine. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
Early detection and intervention are critical in managing cases of TTS. Prompt medical attention can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and minimize potential complications.
Weighing the Risks and Benefits
The overwhelming consensus among medical professionals remains that the benefits of vaccines like Covishield far outweigh the risks. According to AstraZeneca, Vaccines have demonstrably played a pivotal role in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic and significantly reducing -
While acknowledging the possibility of rare side effects like TTS is essential, it shouldn't overshadow the immense public health benefits achieved through vaccination programs.
Final words
Recent acknowledgment of TTS by AstraZeneca shouldn't be a cause for undue alarm. While it's a rare side effect, the overwhelming evidence points towards the immense benefits of Covishield in combating COVID-19.
Remember, fear-mongering and misinformation can be detrimental. It's crucial to rely on credible sources like The Healthy Indian Project and medical professionals for accurate information. If you experience any concerning symptoms after vaccination, consult a doctor immediately.
By understanding the true nature of TTS, its exceptionally rare occurrence with Covishield, and the importance of seeking medical attention in case of concerning symptoms, we can navigate this situation with a balanced perspective, prioritize our health, and acknowledge the immense value of vaccination in protecting ourselves and our communities from the devastating effects of COVID-19.