Government response

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

It has not been confirmed that the reports of blood clots were caused by the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. People should still go and get their COVID-19 vaccine when asked to do so.

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Since this statement was published on 16 March, we have issued a further response. Please see our most current statement here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-regulator-confirms-that-people-should-continue-to-receive-the-covid-19-vaccine-astrazeneca

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Dr Phil Bryan, MHRA Vaccines Safety Lead said:

The benefits of the vaccine in preventing COVID-19, with its associated risk of hospitalisation and death, far outweigh the risks of side effects. People should go and get their COVID-19 vaccine when asked to do so.

It is still the case that it has not been confirmed the reported blood clots were caused by the COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca. Blood clots can occur naturally and are not uncommon.

Our role is to continually monitor safety during widespread use of a vaccine. We have in place a proactive strategy to do this. We also work closely with our public health and international partners in reviewing the effectiveness and impact of the vaccines to ensure the benefits continue to outweigh any possible side effects.

Background:

Published 14 March 2021
Last updated 16 March 2021 + show all updates
  1. We have issued an updated statement. It is still the case that it has not been confirmed the reported blood clots were caused by the COVID-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca.

  2. We have updated our statement.

  3. First published.