AstraZeneca to globally withdraw covid vaccine due to safety concerns: Report
- In Reports
- 01:25 PM, May 08, 2024
- Myind Staff
The pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca has reportedly initiated the global withdrawal of its Vaxzevria vaccine amidst safety concerns surrounding its Covid vaccine Covishield and Vaxzevria.
The company stated that the decision is prompted by a surplus of updated vaccines available since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in a decline in demand for the vaccine.
According to The Telegraph report, AstraZeneca submitted its application to withdraw the Vaxzevria vaccine on March 5, and this action became effective on May 7. Reuters reported that the company withdrew marketing authorisation for the vaccine within Europe.
AstraZeneca's recent action follows days after the Anglo-Swedish drugmaker acknowledged in a legal document that its Covid vaccines could, in very rare instances, lead to Thrombosis Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) - a condition marked by blood clots (thrombosis) and low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia).
The syndrome's detectability remains evident even in the absence of vaccination, with expert testimony necessary to ascertain causation in each instance. The company has reiterated its stance, emphasising that extensive clinical trial data and real-world evidence consistently affirm the vaccine's safety and efficacy. Above all, the company has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to prioritising patient safety.
Last week, a spokesperson for AstraZeneca expressed sympathy for those who have lost loved ones or experienced health issues. They stated that patient safety remains the company's top priority and highlighted the clear and stringent standards set by regulatory authorities to ensure the safe use of all medicines, including vaccines.
The pharmaceutical company has found itself embroiled in a class action lawsuit regarding its Covid-19 vaccines, which allegedly resulted in several deaths worldwide. The lawsuit originated with a complaint filed by Jamie Scott against AstraZeneca, claiming he suffered a severe brain impairment due to a blood clot and brain bleed after receiving the vaccine.
Furthermore, more than 50 cases have been brought against AstraZeneca in court concerning the effects of its vaccine. The Telegraph reported earlier that AstraZeneca admitted in court documents that its Covid vaccine, Covishield, can cause rare side effects. Covishield, developed by AstraZeneca and produced by the Serum Institute of India, has been at the centre of the controversy.
A petition regarding the rare side effects linked to Covishield is set to be heard soon by the Supreme Court. Although a hearing date has not been scheduled, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has acknowledged the petition, which calls for an expert panel to investigate the vaccine's side effects.
Image source: Indian Express
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