A section of doctors, those based in North Karnataka have demanded that the government should put out sufficient information on the post-immunization deaths of two healthcare staff. They feel that this will build confidence in others and also clear the safety concerns whirling around the COVID-19 vaccine.

In Shivamogga district, a Group D worker in Ballari district and a doctor died just two days after receiving the vaccine. Both of them were administered by Serum Institute of India’s Covishield vaccine. The state government and the Centre have claimed that the deaths were not associated with the vaccine, however doctors are worried and have claimed that the government is not being completely up front and an honest admission could interrupt the vaccination drive.

Medical authorities stated thatin addition to the autopsy reports, the government should conduct wide-ranging investigations to rule out any side effects for individuals suffering from pre-existing chronic diseases such as coronary artery disease, etc. Both the healthcare employees who died had heart diseases.

Dr Srinivas Kakkilaya, who is a general physician and has co-authored a book on the SARS-CoV2 virus in a vernacular language, said that none of the vaccine makers has published any safety data and efficacy of their products. The government does not have sufficient data to establish anything. There are several people who suffer from comorbidities; hence it is the responsibility of the government to collect appropriate data and make it public.

Dr Satish Nesari, working at Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences said that the government must answer to all the queries and confusion arising from the deaths due to the vaccine. Taking the vaccine is important and calming the fears and safety concerns is equally superior.

Anil Patil, president of Belagavi Indian Medical Association had admitted that there is a lack of data as side effects can show up even after six months or a year later. He further said that it happened with the hepatitis B vaccine too. After a year, few complained of multiple sclerosis. However, he insisted that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe. He had taken the vaccine and he had advised others to take it too. The choice is left to each individual as the procedure is voluntary.

Source: The Times of India