What Did The WHO Say?
Recently, and with growing criticisms of the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine, the WHO urged the continued use of the vaccine.
As reported on Reuters, the following statement or advice, was issued:
âAs of today, there is no evidence that the incidents are caused by the vaccine and it is important that vaccination campaigns continue so that we can save lives and stem severe disease from the virus,â
WHO spokesman Christian LindmeierÂ
This statement, whilst not declaring the vaccine to be proven safe, did encourage it's continued use.
Why Was This Guidance Issued?
The WHO issued the statement after several countries suspended use of the vaccine, in light of fears about it's safety. Those countries are:
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- ..plus smaller countries that have already suspended use
Whilst the suspension does not cover the entire EU, these member states consist of a large share of the EU's power and population.
What About AstraZeneca In The UK?
The UK's Medicine regulator saw no need for suspension at this stage, urging the population to get the jab when asked to do so because 'evidence does not suggest that the jab causes clots.
It is important to note that the EU states that have suspended the vaccine have done so out of precaution, not out of evidence as to a clear and present danger to the community.
What Do The AstraZeneca Manufacturers Say?
On it's website, AstraZeneca issued the following statement:
"A careful review of all available safety data of more than 17 million people vaccinated in the European Union (EU) and UK with COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca has shown no evidence of an increased risk of pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or thrombocytopenia, in any defined age group, gender, batch or in any particular country."
To translate that into plain speak, it basically means that whilst the safety of the vaccine cannot guaranteed, there is no reason to believe (as far as they are concerned) that the vaccine will cause any negative consequences when administered.
