Understanding Covishield's Rare Side Effect: Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS)
Recent concerns over potential rare side effects linked to AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, Covishield, have prompted discussions about Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS). While AstraZeneca acknowledged a potential connection between its vaccine and TTS, it's crucial to grasp the actual risk associated with this condition.
What is TTS and Its Symptoms?
Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) is a severe health condition associated with adenovirus vector vaccines like Covishield. It leads to low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) and the formation of blood clots (thrombosis) within the body. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling, severe headaches, stomach aches, and easy bruising.
Rare Side Effect of AstraZeneca's Vaccine
While AstraZeneca admitted a potential link between its COVID-19 vaccine, AZD1222, and TTS, it emphasized that this side effect is rare. Not everyone who receives the vaccine will develop TTS. The World Health Organization's recent update on Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca's vaccine) mentions "very rare cases of blood clots with low levels of blood platelets" post-vaccination, some of which had fatal outcomes.
Risk of Developing TTS
Following the initial dose of Vaxzevria, the estimated risk of TTS was 2.6 per 100,000 individuals, with more severe cases observed in those under 60 years old. The risk significantly decreases after the second dose.
Covishield's TTS Risk
The risk of acquiring TTS after Covishield vaccination is minimal. With over 175 crore doses administered in India, Covishield is the most widely used vaccine in the country. Reports of TTS cases associated with Covishield remain limited, and other vaccine-induced complications like CVST have not been documented in India.
Should You Be Concerned?
No need for panic. Dr. Jayadevan, Co-Chairman of the National Indian Medical Association (IMA) Covid Task Force in Kerala, emphasized that TTS is rare and often associated with specific types of vaccines or other causes. Most TTS cases occur within weeks of vaccination, so staying vigilant and consulting a doctor if experiencing symptoms is advisable.
AstraZeneca's Collaboration and Other Vaccines
AstraZeneca developed the COVID-19 vaccine in collaboration with Oxford University. While similar in formulation, vaccines are produced and distributed in different regions. Notably, TTS has been linked to other COVID-19 vaccines like Johnson & Johnson's Janssen.
Consequences and Legal Action
Following AstraZeneca's admission in court regarding potential adverse effects, the parents of a woman who may have died post-Covishield vaccination are considering legal action against the Serum Institute of India (SII), the producer of Covishield.
Understanding the rare side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccines like Covishield is essential for informed decision-making and public health management. While risks exist, they are rare, and vaccine benefits in preventing COVID-19 far outweigh potential adverse events.
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