AstraZeneca, a British pharmaceutical company, has admitted in court that its COVID-19 vaccine, used in India under the name Covishield, can cause a rare side effect of blood clotting and low platelet count. While the company faces a lawsuit for severe harm and deaths caused by the vaccine, experts assure that the benefits of vaccination still outweigh the risks and TTS is more rare in Indians and South Asians. However, Indian patients may not be able to join the British petition due to legal hurdles.
Background
Covishield is an adenoviral vector vaccine developed by the University of Oxford and AstraZeneca to prevent COVID-19. It is manufactured and distributed in India by the Serum Institute of India.
In 2021, some cases of a rare side effect called Thrombosis and Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) were reported following Covishield vaccination. TTS is characterized by blood clotting and low platelet count.
AstraZeneca's Admission
In court proceedings in the UK, AstraZeneca acknowledged that Covishield can cause TTS in some cases. The company stated that the risk is estimated to be around 1 in 100,000 doses.
Expert Opinion
Health experts emphasize that the benefits of vaccination with Covishield still outweigh the risks of TTS. Studies have shown that the vaccine is effective in preventing severe COVID-19 illness and death. Additionally, the risk of TTS is lower in Indians and South Asians than in other populations.
Legal Hurdles for Indian Patients
Indian patients who have suffered from TTS following Covishield vaccination may face challenges in joining the UK legal petition. Legal hurdles, such as lack of jurisdiction and procedural requirements, could prevent them from participating in the lawsuit.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1: What is TTS? A1: TTS is a rare side effect of Covishield that can cause blood clotting and low platelet count.
Q2: What is the risk of TTS from Covishield? A2: The risk is estimated to be around 1 in 100,000 doses.
Q3: Should I still get vaccinated with Covishield? A3: Yes, experts recommend vaccination with Covishield as the benefits outweigh the risks.
Q4: Are Indian patients eligible for the UK lawsuit? A4: Legal hurdles may prevent Indian patients from participating in the UK lawsuit.
Q5: What should I do if I experience symptoms of TTS? A5: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe headache, shortness of breath, chest pain, or bruising.
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