On the heels of complaints against the AstraZeneca vaccine, the World Health Organization, WHO, has advised countries to continue the use of the vaccine, saying that the benefits of the drug outweigh its risks.
Recall that some countries in the European Union had temporarily suspended the use of the vaccine as a precautionary measure, following reports of rare blood coagulation disorders in persons who received the vaccine.
But in a statement posted on its website on Wednesday, the WHO clarified that the suspension was not a cause for panic, saying that it is a routine process associated with immunization.
“In extensive vaccination campaigns, it is routine for countries to signal potential adverse events following immunization.
“This does not necessarily mean that the events are linked to vaccination itself but it is good practice to investigate them.
“It also shows that the surveillance system works and that, effective controls are in place.”
The organization, therefore, revealed that they are in contact with relevant agencies who are monitoring the safety of the vaccine globally.
“WHO is in regular contact with the European Medicines Agency and regulators around the world for the latest information on COVID-19 vaccine safety.
“The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety is carefully assessing the latest available safety data for the AstraZeneca vaccine.
“Once that review is completed, WHO will immediately communicate the findings to the public.
“At this time, WHO considers that the benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine outweigh its risks and recommends that vaccination continues.”
