DOH, FDA: Serious adverse event not caused by the vaccine; no reason to suspend vaccination

By DOH

MANILA, March 17 —  On 15 March 2021, a death was reported in an individual who had received the COVID-19 vaccine and subsequently tested positive for COVID 19.

In response, the regional and national AEFI committees were activated to conduct a thorough investigation of the case. Upon completion of the investigation following the 2019 WHO AEFI causality assessment methodology, the NAEFIC and RAEFIC concluded that the cause of the death was caused by COVID-19 itself, not by the COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 vaccines cannot cause COVID-19.

The DOH and FDA emphasize that vaccines are only one part of the solution in bringing the COVID-19 pandemic to an end. Even with vaccines, people must continue with the important prevention measures already in place: wearing masks, maintaining physical distancing, washing hands frequently, and avoiding crowded places and settings.

DOH and FDA encourage all health workers to get vaccinated especially now that we are seeing a surge in COVID 19 cases. Millions of people around the world have received this vaccine, and evidence continues to show that the benefit of vaccination outweighs the risk of severe disease and death caused by COVID-19.  (DOH)