The Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, manufactured in partnership with the Serum Institute of India as Covishield, has played a crucial role in India's battle against the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite its widespread use in the country and globally, concerns have arisen over rare adverse effects linked to the vaccine, specifically related to blood clot formation.
Dr. Chandrakant Lahariya, a senior consultant physician, highlighted the rare but serious condition called Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (VITTP) associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine. He emphasized the importance of balancing the risks and benefits of vaccination, noting that while serious side effects exist, the number of lives saved by the vaccine far outweigh these risks, a sentiment echoed by other healthcare professionals interviewed by Business Standard.
Former IMA national president Dr. Ravi Wankedekar explained that Vaccine-induced Immune TTS symptoms, such as headaches, chest pain, and blood spots under the skin, typically manifest within 1-6 weeks post-vaccination. Dr. Wankedekar reassured the public that the benefits of the vaccine outweigh the risks, stressing that vaccinated individuals have a lower overall risk of complications compared to those who are not vaccinated. Various experts, including Dr. Pavitra Mohan and Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, have emphasized the need for transparent communication from vaccine developers and professionals to address concerns and ensure informed decision-making regarding vaccination.