Blood clots may be linked to AstraZeneca vaccine but still very rare: Health Canada
Posted Apr 14, 2021 9:26 am.
Last Updated Apr 14, 2021 1:13 pm.
OTTAWA – Health Canada said a new and extremely rare blood clotting syndrome may be linked to Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine but the benefits of the vaccine still far outweigh the risks.
The conclusions come after the department’s drug regulatory experts completed a review of safety data, and are in line with those issued in Europe and the United Kingdom last week.
The decision comes the day after Canada reported its first-ever case of a blood clot in a patient who received the AstraZeneca vaccine in Quebec.
WATCH: Canada reports first case of blood clots in person who received AstraZeneca vaccine
The syndrome, now known as VIPIT, occurs when the body’s immune system begins to attack blood platelets, leading to clots.
Scientists now know what is happening but they haven’t yet been able to explain how the vaccine may be causing it.
Health Canada said there is no evidence showing certain people are more at risk than others and the vaccine will remain authorized for all adults in Canada.
Dr. Sharma says first report of a blood clot after using the Astra Zeneca vaccine will be included in ongoing safety review of the shot
Health Canada has determined (like other regulators) that rare blood clots are linked to the shot, however benefits far outweigh risks #cdnpoli— Cormac Mac Sweeney (@cmaconthehill) April 14, 2021
