MHRA response to the precautionary suspensions of COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca

Dr Phil Bryan, MHRA Vaccines Safety Lead said:

We are closely reviewing reports but the evidence available does not suggest the vaccine is the cause.

Blood clots can occur naturally and are not uncommon. More than 11 million doses of the COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca have now been administered across the UK, and the number of blood clots reported after having the vaccine is not greater than the number that would have occurred naturally in the vaccinated population.

We are working closely with international counterparts in understanding the global safety experience of COVID-19 vaccines and on the rapid sharing of safety data and reports.

People should still go and get their COVID-19 vaccine when asked to do so.

Background:

For further details, see our statement and advice published on 11 March

The MHRA encourages anyone to report any suspicion or concern they have beyond the known, mild side effects on the Coronavirus Yellow Card site. Reporters do not need to be sure of a link between a vaccine and a suspected side effect but are still encouraged to report.

For more information on COVID-19 vaccine adverse reactions, see our weekly report