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Mendes MS. Pandemic, science and health: between determinisms and determinations. J Public Health (Oxf) 2024; 46:e678-e680. [PMID: 39068508 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdae144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Simões Mendes
- Department of Psychology, Paulinia University Center-UNIFACP, Paulinia, 13140-000, Brazil
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2
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Hulscher N, Alexander PE, Amerling R, Gessling H, Hodkinson R, Makis W, Risch HA, Trozzi M, McCullough PA. Withdrawn: A systematic review of autopsy findings in deaths after COVID-19 vaccination. Forensic Sci Int 2024:112115. [PMID: 39120477 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
This Article-in-Press has been withdrawn at the request of the Editors-in-Chief. Members of the scientific community raised concerns about this Article-in-Press following its posting online. The concerns encompassed. • Inappropriate citation of references. • Inappropriate design of methodology. • Errors, misrepresentation, and lack of factual support for the conclusions. • Failure to recognise and cite disconfirming evidence. The concerns were shared with the authors, who prepared a response and submitted a revised manuscript for consideration by the journal. In consideration of the extent of the concerns raised and the responses from the authors, the journal sent the revised manuscript to two independent peer-reviewers. The peer-reviewers concluded that the revised manuscript did not sufficiently address the concerns raised by the community and that it was not suitable for publication in the journal. The authors disagree with this withdrawal and dispute the grounds for it. The full Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://www.elsevier.com/about/policies/article-withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Hulscher
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.
| | | | | | | | | | - William Makis
- Cross Cancer Institute, Alberta Health Services, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1Z2, Canada
| | - Harvey A Risch
- Professor Emeritus, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | - Peter A McCullough
- The Wellness Company, Boca Raton, FL, United States; Truth for Health Foundation, Tucson, AZ, United States
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3
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Yang D, Tian J, Shen C, Li Q. An overview and single-arm meta-analysis of immune-mediated adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1308768. [PMID: 38933672 PMCID: PMC11200080 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1308768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background We conducted an overview to assess immune adverse effects associated with the COVID-19 vaccine, guiding safer choices and providing evidence-based information to clinicians. Methods Forty-three studies on adverse effects of vaccines were reviewed from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Single-arm meta-analyses estimated summary effects, incidence, presentation, etc. An overview using single-arm meta-analysis and reported the findings following the guidelines outlined in the 'Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) specifically focusing on myocarditis and thrombosis. After screening 2,591 articles, 42 studies met the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was evaluated using AMSTAR 2. Disagreements were resolved via consensus. Data analysis utilized a random-effects model in R software to estimate incidence rates of selected adverse events. Results After removing 1,198 duplicates and screening out irrelevant articles from a total of 2,591, we included 42 studies. Adverse reactions to vaccinations include myocarditis, thrombosis, skin reactions, GBS, etc. thrombosis and myocarditis are the most dangerous diseases associated with vaccination. Myocarditis occurred in 6% of Vector vaccine recipients, compared to 61% of mRNA vaccine recipients. Thrombosis was more common after Vector vaccination (91%) than after mRNA vaccination (9%). Furthermore, eight studies conducted anti-PF4 antibody tests and yielded a positivity rate of 67%. Meta-analysis showed that among all patients with Vaccine-induced Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis occurred in 66%, and intracranial hemorrhage occurred in 43%. The rates of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary thromboembolism in vaccinated patients were 13% and 23%, respectively, with a pooled case fatality rate of 30%. Conclusion The results of this overview indicate the majority of adverse reactions are self-limiting and require minimal intervention, while rare occurrences such as myocarditis and thrombosis pose a potentially fatal threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghua Yang
- Department of Public Health and Hospital Infection Management, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining, China
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jinhui Tian
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Caiyi Shen
- Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qin Li
- Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
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Dul-Amnuay A. Case Study of Autopsy Findings in a Population of Post-COVID-19 Vaccination in Thailand. Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2024; 45:45-50. [PMID: 38127652 PMCID: PMC11446518 DOI: 10.1097/paf.0000000000000900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Thailand began offering the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine nationwide in February 2021, with 1,885 deaths reported by the end of the year. Therefore, it is essential to assess the correlation between vaccination and cause of death from autopsy. This study included 34 autopsies of a deceased within 30 days after COVID-19 vaccination performed in Bangkok under the postmortem inquest service area of Bhumibol Adulyadej Hospital. The autopsies were performed by forensic pathologists. Moreover, detailed information about the deceased was collected, including age, sex, medical records, vaccination history, scene investigation reports, autopsy reports, cause of death, and a probable causal relationship between vaccination and cause of death. There were 24 males (70.59%), and the average age of the deceased was 52.76 years. Of all individuals, 28 (82.36%), 4 (11.76%), and 2 (5.88%) were vaccinated with AstraZeneca, Sinopharm, and SinoVac, respectively. The most common cause of death was ischemic heart disease (n = 17). None of the deceased patients had a causal relationship to the vaccine. Deaths were due to natural causes, as no definitive link between vaccination and cause of death was established in the study.
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Minato H, Yoshikawa A, Tsuyama S, Katayanagi K, Hachiya S, Ohta K, Myojo Y. Fatal arrythmia in a young man after COVID-19 vaccination: An autopsy report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e37196. [PMID: 38306524 PMCID: PMC10843519 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE The benefits of COVID-19 mRNA vaccination are claimed to be substantial; however, vaccination-related myocarditis and pericarditis have also been observed globally, particularly among young men. In most cases, the symptoms are mild and resolve on their own; however, fatal cases have rarely been described. PATIENT CONCERNS A healthy 40-year-old Japanese man suddenly experienced tachycardia and lost consciousness 2 days after vaccination. Continued resuscitation recovered the spontaneous heartbeat; however, the patient did not regain consciousness and died 9 days later. Electrocardiography after resuscitation showed marked ST-segment depression and incomplete right bundle branch block. Influenza antigen and polymerase chain reaction tests for SARS-CoV-2 were negative. DIAGNOSES Fatal arrhythmia after a second COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. INTERVENTIONS We performed an autopsy and studied the material morphologically and immunohistochemically. OUTCOMES At autopsy, several small inflammatory foci with cardiomyocytic necrosis were scattered in the right and left ventricles, with a propensity for the right side. Some inflammatory foci were located near the atrioventricular nodes and His bundles. The infiltrating cells predominantly consisted of CD68-positive histiocytes, with a small number of CD8-positive and CD4-positive T cells. In this case, myocarditis was focal and mild, as is mostly observed following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. However, the inflammatory foci were close to the conduction system and were considered the cause of fatal arrhythmia. LESSONS Although the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination appear to outweigh the side effects, it should be noted that fatal arrhythmias may rarely occur, and caution should be taken if individuals, particularly young men, complain of any symptoms after vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Minato
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Akane Yoshikawa
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Sho Tsuyama
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Katayanagi
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Satoaki Hachiya
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Keisuke Ohta
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Myojo
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care, Ishikawa Prefectural Central Hospital, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan
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Ha J, Song MC, Park S, Kang H, Kyung T, Kim N, Kim DK, Bae K, Lee KJ, Lee E, Hwang BS, Youn J, Seok JM, Park K. Deciphering deaths associated with severe serious adverse events following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination: A retrospective cohort study. Vaccine X 2024; 16:100446. [PMID: 38318232 PMCID: PMC10839134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2024.100446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jongmok Ha
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Min Cheol Song
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Suyeon Park
- Department of Biostatistics, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Applied Statistics, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyunwook Kang
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Taeeun Kyung
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Namoh Kim
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Dong Kyu Kim
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Kihoon Bae
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Kwang June Lee
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Euiho Lee
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
| | - Beom Seuk Hwang
- Department of Applied Statistics, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jinyoung Youn
- Department of Neurology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Neuroscience Center, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Myoung Seok
- Department of Neurology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital Cheonan, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Kunhee Park
- Infectious Disease Control Center, Gyeonggi Provincial Government, Suwon, Korea
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Maruyama T, Uesako H. Lessons Learnt from Case Series of Out-of-hospital Cardiac Arrest and Unexpected Death after COVID-19 Vaccination. Intern Med 2023; 62:3267-3275. [PMID: 37612082 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.2298-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination against COVID-19 has raised concerns about myocarditis in young men, as out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) or sudden death after vaccination has been reported sporadically. Common features of these cases are occurrence in young men, within a few weeks after vaccination, in patients with no structural heart diseases. Cases of unexplained nocturnal death showed fibrotic or hypertrophied myocardium, and one case of OHCA presented ventricular fibrillation (VF) triggered by a prominent J wave on an automated external defibrillator and histopathologic findings compatible with myocarditis. Both myocarditis and J waves are prevalent in young men, and these cases imply that myocarditis augments J waves, which trigger VFs, and primary electrical disorders are a leading cause of death. To prevent such issues, artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted interpretation of historical electrocardiogram findings may help predict future J wave formation leading to VF, as digital electrocardiogram (ECG) findings are well suited for AI interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Maruyama
- Professor Emeritus in Kyushu University, Kyushu University Hospital, Japan
- Haradoi Hospital, Japan
| | - Hayata Uesako
- Department of Internal Medicine, Suwa Central Hospital, Japan
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Tran HA, Deng L, Wood N, Choi P, Singleton S, Clarke L, Khanlari S, Maitland-Scott I, Bird R, Brown S, Manoharan B, Tan CW, Gold M, Hissaria P, Melody S, Chunilal S SD, Buttery J, Clothier H, Crawford NW, Phuong L, Pepperell D, Effler P, Parker C, Carter N, Macartney K, McStea M, Miller T, Nissen M, Larter C, Kay E, Chen VM. The clinicopathological features of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome following ChAdOx1-S (AZD1222) vaccination and case outcomes in Australia: a population-based study. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 40:100894. [PMID: 37701717 PMCID: PMC10494168 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2023.100894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Background Thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) associated with viral vector COVID-19 vaccines, including ChAdOx1-S (AstraZeneca AZD1222) vaccine, can result in significant morbidity and mortality. We report the clinicopathological features of TTS following ChAdOx1-S vaccination and summarise the case outcomes in Australia. Methods In this cohort study, patients diagnosed with TTS in Australia between 23 March and 31 December 2021 were identified according to predefined criteria. Cases were included if they met the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) probable and confirmed case definitions and were reclassified using Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definition for analysis. Data were collected on patient baseline characteristics, clinicopathological features, risk factors, treatment and outcomes. Findings A total of 170 TTS cases were identified, with most occurring after the first dose (87%) of ChAdOx1-S. The median time to symptom onset after vaccination and symptom onset to admission was 11 and 2 days respectively. The median age of cases was 66 years (interquartile range 55-74). All except two patients received therapeutic anticoagulation and 66% received intravenous immunoglobulin. Overall, 85.3% of cases were discharged home after a median hospitalisation of 6 days, 9.4% required ongoing rehabilitation and 5.3% died. Eight deaths were related to TTS, with another dying from an unrelated condition while receiving treatment for TTS. Deaths occurred more commonly in those classified as Tier 1 according to the CDC definition and were associated with more severe thrombocytopenia and disease-related haemorrhage. Interpretation TTS, while rare, can be severe and have catastrophic outcomes in some individuals. In Australia, the mortality rate was low compared to that reported in other high-income countries. Almost all received therapeutic anticoagulation with no bleeding complications and were successfully discharged. This emphasises the importance of community education and an established pathway for early recognition, diagnosis and treatment of TTS. Funding Australian Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care. H.A Tran, N. Wood, J. Buttery, N.W. Crawford, S.D. Chunilal, V.M. Chen are supported by Medical Research Future Funds (MRFF) grant ID 2015305.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huyen A. Tran
- The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lucy Deng
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicholas Wood
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Philip Choi
- The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Sally Singleton
- ACT Health Directorate, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Lisa Clarke
- Department of Haematology, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Transfusion Policy and Education, Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Khanlari
- New South Wales Ministry of Health, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Robert Bird
- Division of Cancer Services, Department of Haematology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Scott Brown
- Queensland Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bavahuna Manoharan
- Queensland Health, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chee Wee Tan
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Area Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- SA Pathology, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Michael Gold
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Women's and Children's Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Pravin Hissaria
- Royal Adelaide Hospital, Central Area Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- SA Pathology, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Shannon Melody
- Public Health Services, Tasmania Department of Health, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Sanjeev D. Chunilal S
- Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jim Buttery
- SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hazel Clothier
- SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Health Analytics, Melbourne Children's Centre, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nigel W. Crawford
- SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Linny Phuong
- SAEFVIC, Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Paul Effler
- Western Australian Department of Health, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Claire Parker
- Western Australian Department of Health, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nicola Carter
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kristine Macartney
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- The University of Sydney Children's Hospital Westmead Clinical School, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Megan McStea
- Australian Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Todd Miller
- Australian Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Michael Nissen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Claire Larter
- Australian Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Elspeth Kay
- Australian Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Vivien M. Chen
- Department of Haematology and NSW Health Pathology, Concord Hospital Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Nushida H, Ito A, Kurata H, Umemoto H, Tokunaga I, Iseki H, Nishimura A. A case of fatal multi-organ inflammation following COVID-19 vaccination. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2023; 63:102244. [PMID: 36990036 PMCID: PMC10027302 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
A 14-year-old Japanese girl died unexpectedly 2 days after receiving the third dose of the BNT1262b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Autopsy findings showed congestive edema of the lungs, T-cell lymphocytic and macrophage infiltration in the lungs, pericardium, and myocardium of the left atria and left ventricle, liver, kidneys, stomach, duodenum, bladder, and diaphragm. Since there was no preceding infection, allergy, or drug toxicity exposure, the patient was diagnosed with post-vaccination pneumonia, myopericarditis, hepatitis, nephritis, gastroenteritis, cystitis, and myositis. Although neither type of inflammation is fatal by itself, arrhythmia is reported to be the most common cause of death in patients with atrial myopericarditis. In the present case, arrhythmia of atrial origin was assumed as the cause of cardiac failure and death. In sudden post-vaccination deaths, aggressive autopsy systemic search and histological examination involving extensive sectioning of the heart, including the atrium, are indispensable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Nushida
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan.
| | - Asuka Ito
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Kurata
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan; Department of Physical Medicine, Nakazu-Yagi Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hitomi Umemoto
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan; Division of Anatomical Education Support, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Itsuo Tokunaga
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Iseki
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan; Department of Physical Medicine, Nakazu-Yagi Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Akiyoshi Nishimura
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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10
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Manu P. Fatal Myocarditis After COVID-19 Vaccination: Fourteen Autopsy-Confirmed Cases. Am J Ther 2023; 30:e259-e260. [PMID: 37278705 DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0000000000001631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Manu
- Department of Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/ Northwell, Hempstead, NY and South Oaks Hospital, Amityville, NY
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11
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Mahasing C, Doungngern P, Jaipong R, Nonmuti P, Chimmanee J, Wongsawat J, Boonyasirinant T, Wanlapakorn C, Leelapatana P, Yingchoncharoen T, Ngarmukos T, Chokephaibulkit K, Srimahachota S. Myocarditis and Pericarditis following COVID-19 Vaccination in Thailand. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:749. [PMID: 37112661 PMCID: PMC10141407 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocarditis and pericarditis cases following Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination were reported worldwide. In Thailand, COVID-19 vaccines were approved for emergency use. Adverse event following immunization (AEFI) surveillance has been strengthened to ensure the safety of the vaccines. This study aimed to describe the characteristics of myocarditis and pericarditis, and identify the factors associated with myocarditis and pericarditis following COVID-19 vaccination in Thailand. METHOD We carried out a descriptive study of reports of myocarditis and pericarditis to Thailand's National AEFI Program (AEFI-DDC) between 1 March and 31 December 2021. An unpaired case-control study was conducted to determine the factors associated with myocarditis and pericarditis after the CoronaVac, ChAdOx1-nCoV, BBIBP-CorV, BNT162b2, and mRNA-1273 vaccines. The cases consisted of COVID-19 vaccine recipients who met the definition of confirmed, probable, or suspected cases of myocarditis or pericarditis within 30 days of vaccination. The controls were people who underwent COVID-19 vaccination between 1 March and 31 December 2021, with no adverse reactions documented after vaccination. RESULTS Among the 31,125 events recorded in the AEFI-DDC after 104.63 million vaccinations, 204 cases of myocarditis and pericarditis were identified. The majority of them were male (69%). The median age was 15 years (interquartile range (IQR): 13-17). The incidence was highest following the BNT162b2 vaccination (0.97 cases per 100,000 doses administered). Ten deaths were reported in this study; no deaths were reported among children who received the mRNA vaccine. Compared with the age-specific incidence of myocarditis and pericarditis in Thailand before the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccination, the incidence of myocarditis and pericarditis after the BNT162b2 vaccine was greater in the 12-17 and 18-20 age groups in both males and females. It was higher after the second dose in 12- to 17-year-olds (2.68 cases per 100,000 doses administered) and highest after the second dose in male 12- to 17-year-olds (4.43 cases per 100,000 doses administered). Young age and a mRNA-based vaccination were associated with myocarditis and pericarditis following administration of the COVID-19 vaccine after multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS Myocarditis and pericarditis following vaccination against COVID-19 were uncommon and mild, and were most likely to affect male adolescents. The COVID-19 vaccine offers the recipients enormous benefits. The balance between the risks and advantages of the vaccine and consistent monitoring of AEFI are essential for management of the disease and identification of AEFI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chayanit Mahasing
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Building 10 Floor 3, 88/21 Tiwanon Rd., Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand; (P.D.)
| | - Pawinee Doungngern
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Building 10 Floor 3, 88/21 Tiwanon Rd., Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand; (P.D.)
| | - Rittichai Jaipong
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Building 10 Floor 3, 88/21 Tiwanon Rd., Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand; (P.D.)
| | - Poonyaporn Nonmuti
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Building 10 Floor 3, 88/21 Tiwanon Rd., Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand; (P.D.)
| | - Jirapa Chimmanee
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Building 10 Floor 3, 88/21 Tiwanon Rd., Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand; (P.D.)
| | - Jurai Wongsawat
- Bamrasnaradura Infectious Diseases Institute, Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand
| | | | | | | | | | - Tachapong Ngarmukos
- Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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12
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Jaycox JR, Lucas C, Yildirim I, Dai Y, Wang EY, Monteiro V, Lord S, Carlin J, Kita M, Buckner JH, Ma S, Campbell M, Ko A, Omer S, Lucas CL, Speake C, Iwasaki A, Ring AM. SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines decouple anti-viral immunity from humoral autoimmunity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1299. [PMID: 36894554 PMCID: PMC9996559 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36686-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based vaccines dramatically reduce the occurrence and severity of COVID-19, but are associated with rare vaccine-related adverse effects. These toxicities, coupled with observations that SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with autoantibody development, raise questions whether COVID-19 vaccines may also promote the development of autoantibodies, particularly in autoimmune patients. Here we used Rapid Extracellular Antigen Profiling to characterize self- and viral-directed humoral responses after SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination in 145 healthy individuals, 38 patients with autoimmune diseases, and 8 patients with mRNA vaccine-associated myocarditis. We confirm that most individuals generated robust virus-specific antibody responses post vaccination, but that the quality of this response is impaired in autoimmune patients on certain modes of immunosuppression. Autoantibody dynamics are remarkably stable in all vaccinated patients compared to COVID-19 patients that exhibit an increased prevalence of new autoantibody reactivities. Patients with vaccine-associated myocarditis do not have increased autoantibody reactivities relative to controls. In summary, our findings indicate that mRNA vaccines decouple SARS-CoV-2 immunity from autoantibody responses observed during acute COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian R Jaycox
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carolina Lucas
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Inci Yildirim
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Infectious Diseases and Global Health, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Institute for Global Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yile Dai
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Eric Y Wang
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Valter Monteiro
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sandra Lord
- Center for Interventional Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Mariko Kita
- Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jane H Buckner
- Translational Research Program, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shuangge Ma
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Melissa Campbell
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Albert Ko
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Saad Omer
- Yale Institute for Global Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carrie L Lucas
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Cate Speake
- Center for Interventional Immunology, Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Akiko Iwasaki
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
| | - Aaron M Ring
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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13
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Schwab C, Domke LM, Hartmann L, Stenzinger A, Longerich T, Schirmacher P. Autopsy-based histopathological characterization of myocarditis after anti-SARS-CoV-2-vaccination. Clin Res Cardiol 2023; 112:431-440. [PMID: 36436002 PMCID: PMC9702955 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-022-02129-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cases of myocarditis, diagnosed clinically by laboratory tests and imaging have been described in the context of mRNA-based anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Autopsy-based description of detailed histological features of vaccine-induced myocarditis is lacking. We describe the autopsy findings and common characteristics of myocarditis in untreated persons who received anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Standardized autopsies were performed on 25 persons who had died unexpectedly and within 20 days after anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. In four patients who received a mRNA vaccination, we identified acute (epi-)myocarditis without detection of another significant disease or health constellation that may have caused an unexpected death. Histology showed patchy interstitial myocardial T-lymphocytic infiltration, predominantly of the CD4 positive subset, associated with mild myocyte damage. Overall, autopsy findings indicated death due to acute arrhythmogenic cardiac failure. Thus, myocarditis can be a potentially lethal complication following mRNA-based anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Our findings may aid in adequately diagnosing unclear cases after vaccination and in establishing a timely diagnosis in vivo, thus, providing the framework for adequate monitoring and early treatment of severe clinical cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantin Schwab
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Pathologisches Institut, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lisa Maria Domke
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Pathologisches Institut, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Heidelberg, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laura Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Pathologisches Institut, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Heidelberg, Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Albrecht Stenzinger
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Pathologisches Institut, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Longerich
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Pathologisches Institut, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Schirmacher
- Institute of Pathology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Pathologisches Institut, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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14
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Badaró R, Novaes G, Andrade AC, de Araujo Neto CA, Machado BA, Barbosa JDV, Soares MBP. Myocardial infarction or myocarditis? A case report and review of a myocardial adverse event associated with mRNA vaccine. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1071239. [PMID: 36817791 PMCID: PMC9932914 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1071239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A 23-year-old man started with chest pain 8 h after his first Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccination. ECG evaluation showed sinus tachycardia with ST-segment elevation in D1, AVL, V5, and V6, the findings compatible with acute subepicardial myocardial damage. However, cardiac MRI documented myocardial fibrosis, with cardiac late enhancement non-ischemic pattern with diffuse edema. He had no other symptoms to suggest another etiology than the vaccination. The patient was hospitalized and received corticosteroid (prednisolone) daily. Then, 2 weeks after hospitalization, all laboratory parameters and ECG were normal and the patient was discharged from the hospital. The patient had a history of Wolf-Parkinson White that was corrected with ablation when he was 11 years old. This report calls attention to myocardial adverse reaction risk for mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for people with a previous cardiac disease history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Badaró
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems, University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador, Brazil,Allmed Specialized Clinic, Salvador, Brazil,*Correspondence: Roberto Badaró,
| | | | | | | | - Bruna Aparecida Machado
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems, University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Josiane Dantas Viana Barbosa
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems, University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Milena Botelho Pereira Soares
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems, University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador, Brazil,Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Brazil,Milena Botelho Pereira Soares,
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15
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Sousa JP, Roque D, Guerreiro C, Teixeira R. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-induced myocarditis - real but, in general, rare and mild: A consensus statement from the Studies Committee of the Portuguese Society of Cardiology. Rev Port Cardiol 2023; 42:161-167. [PMID: 36621565 PMCID: PMC9812843 DOI: 10.1016/j.repc.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute myocarditis (especially) and pericarditis have been consistently associated with the administration of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), generating anxiety in the general population, uncertainty in the scientific community and obstacles to ambitious mass vaccination programs, especially in foreign countries. Like some of its European counterparts, the Portuguese Society of Cardiology (SPC), through its Studies Committee, decided to take a position on some of the most pressing questions related to this issue: (i) How certain are we of this epidemiological association? (ii) What is the probability of its occurrence? (iii) What are the pathophysiological bases of these inflammatory syndromes? (iv) Should their diagnosis, treatment and prognosis follow the same steps as for typical idiopathic or post-viral acute myopericarditis cases? (v) Is the risk of post-vaccine myocarditis great enough to overshadow the occurrence of serious COVID-19 disease in unvaccinated individuals? In addition, the SPC will issue clinical recommendations and offer its outlook on the various paths this emerging disease may take in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Pedro Sousa
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, EPE, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - David Roque
- Hospital Prof. Doutor Fernando Fonseca, EPE, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Cláudio Guerreiro
- Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, EPE, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Rogério Teixeira
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, EPE, Coimbra, Portugal
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16
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Death from COVID-19 in a Fully Vaccinated Subject: A Complete Autopsy Report. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11010142. [PMID: 36679987 PMCID: PMC9865400 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
A correctly implemented and widely accepted vaccination campaign was the only truly effective weapon to reduce mortality and hospitalizations related to COVID-19. However, it was not 100% effective and has not eliminated COVID-19. Even though more than 60% of the worldwide population is fully vaccinated (meaning that these subjects have completed the recommended vaccine cycle), subjects continue to die from COVID-19, particularly in the presence of comorbidities. In this scenario, autopsies play a crucial role in understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 in vaccinated subjects and adapting therapies accordingly. This case report analyzes the death of a fully vaccinated patient who suffered from comorbidities and died from COVID-19; we provide a complete autopsy data set. On microscopic examination, the lungs showed massive interstitial pneumonia, areas of inflammation with interstitial lympho-plasma cell infiltrate, and interstitial edema. The liver showed granulocytes within the hepatic parenchyma. All these elements were consistent with previous published data on unvaccinated patients who had died from COVID-19. The present study is the first that analyzes, through a complete autopsy and a microscopic analysis of all organs, a death related to COVID-19 despite vaccine administration. In this regard, to the best of our knowledge, no other studies have been published reporting a complete autopsy. This study reports, on the one hand, the importance of vaccination programs in the fight against COVID-19, and, on the other hand, it hypothesizes that the vaccine does not offer complete immunity to SARS-CoV-2, particularly in elderly subjects with comorbidities.
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17
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Muslim S, Mustafa G, Nasrin N, Firdaus A, Singh SK. An analysis of fatal adverse conditions in temporal association of COVID-19 vaccination to boost the safety of vaccination for COVID-19. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE 2023; 35:11. [PMID: 36777902 PMCID: PMC9903264 DOI: 10.1186/s43162-023-00191-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, claimed multiple lives in a very short span of time. Seeing the urgency of situation, vaccines were developed in hitherto unseen time frame. Vaccines definitely passed the test of safety and efficacy in clinical trials, but post mass vaccination data revealed cases of fatal adverse conditions in the temporal association of vaccination. The temporal association does not guarantee that the fatality is due to vaccination, but at the same time, it does create a concern. To overcome this concern and improve the safety of vaccination, we reviewed literature and collected data of 15 studies comprising of total 22 cases of fatal adverse condition/death in the temporal association of COVID-19 vaccination. Analysis of these data shows that many persons (40.90%) who succumbed were previously healthy individuals. All those who died developed symptoms or were admitted to hospital within a period of 3 weeks after vaccination. 86.36% cases of death took place within a period of 3 weeks after vaccination/presentation/admission/intervention. Complications which lead to death were CVST, thrombocytopenia/thrombosis /VITT, DIC and haemorrhage in 81.18% of cases. 81.81% cases of death were noted in the temporal association with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine. 68.18% persons developed symptoms after first dose. Death was more common in females (59.09%), and the most commonly affected age group was 20 to 60 years (86.36%). Knowledge of fatal adverse conditions in the temporal association of vaccination will help to tackle these situations well and improve the safety of vaccination drive further.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gulam Mustafa
- grid.449644.f0000 0004 0441 5692College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra, 11961 Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasrin Nasrin
- Katihar Medical College & Hospital, Katihar, Bihar India
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18
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Postmortem PF4 antibodies confirm a rare case of thrombosis thrombocytopenia syndrome associated with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 anti-COVID vaccination. Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:487-492. [PMID: 36289074 PMCID: PMC9607767 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02910-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We report a case of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, bilateral adrenal hemorrhage, and thrombocytopenia in a 70-year-old man found dead. He had previously received the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine (Vaxzevria®, AstraZeneca) 18 days before, and had since developed unspecific and undiagnosed characteristics of what proved to be a rare case of vaccine-associated thrombocytopenia with thrombosis syndrome (TTS). He was found dead 1 week after the beginning of symptoms (day 25 post-vaccine). Autopsy yielded venous hemorrhagic infarction with the presence of thrombi within dural venous sinuses, and extensive hemorrhagic necrosis of the central part of the adrenal glands. Antibodies against platelet factor 4 (PF4) were strongly positive in postmortem fluids, as measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This difficult diagnosis is usually made during the patient's lifetime. After eliminating differential diagnoses, we concluded on a fatal case of vaccine-induced immune TTS with positive anti-PF4 antibodies in cadaveric blood, 3 weeks after ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination. Specific search for anti-PF4 antibodies in cadaveric blood appears therefore paramount to assess postmortem cases of TTS associated with anti-COVID vaccines.
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19
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A postmortem study of patients vaccinated for SARS-CoV-2 in Colombia. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE PATOLOGIA : PUBLICACION OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ANATOMIA PATOLOGICA Y DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE CITOLOGIA 2023; 56:4-9. [PMID: 36599599 PMCID: PMC9618417 DOI: 10.1016/j.patol.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE A new coronavirus produces a disease designated as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Vaccination against COVID-19 has resulted in decreased mortality. Postmortems of vaccinated patients play an important part in the forensic analysis of adverse effects after vaccination, which is essential for determining its efficacy and security. The main objective of this study was to describe the results of autopsies of patients vaccinated for SARS-CoV-2 carried out in two major centers in Colombia. MATERIALS AND METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study of 121 autopsies was performed following Colombian regulations in two main hospitals in Bogotá, Colombia, between March 1st and April 31st, 2021. RESULTS 118 of the 121 patients (97.52%) had been vaccinated with CoronaVac (Sinovac); only 3 had received other vaccines. Sudden cardiac death was the leading cause of death, with pulmonary embolism another critical finding. No relation between the cause of death and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 was found. CONCLUSIONS A clinical autopsy is a vital for an accurate post-mortem diagnosis. Any relation between the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and the cause of death should be carefully studied in order to provide the general public with evidence-based information about the safety of the vaccination.
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20
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Harapan H, Fathima R, Kusuma HI, Anwar S, Nalapraya WY, Wibowo A, Wati KDK, Medina A, Defrita AH, Astri Y, Prasetyowati A, Nurfarahin N, Khusna A, Oktariana S, Anwar S, Yussar MO, Khotimah S, Nainggolan BWM, Badri PRA, Argarini R, Winardi W, Indah R, Sallam M, Rajamoorthy Y, Wagner AL, Mudatsir M. Drivers of and Barriers to COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Dose Acceptance in Indonesia. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1981. [PMID: 36560390 PMCID: PMC9783536 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10121981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Obtaining a booster dose of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine is required to maintain the protective level of neutralizing antibodies and therefore herd immunity in the community, and the success of booster dose programs depends on public acceptance. The aim of this study was to determine the acceptance of a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine and its drivers and barriers in Indonesia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the provinces of Indonesia between 1 and 15 August 2022. Individuals who completed the primary series of the COVID-19 vaccine were asked about their acceptance of a booster dose. Those who refused the booster dose were questioned about their reasons. A logistic regression was used to determine the determinants associated with rejection of a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine. A total of 2935 respondents were included in the final analysis. With no information on the efficacy and safety of the COVID-19 vaccine, 95% of respondents agreed to receive a booster dose if it were provided for free by the government. This acceptance was reduced to only 50.3% if the vaccine had a 75% efficacy with a 20% chance of side effects. The adjusted logistic regression analysis indicated that there were eight factors associated with the rejection of the booster dose: age, marital status, religion, occupation, type of the first two vaccines received, knowledge regarding the importance of the booster dose, belief that natural immunity is sufficient to prevent COVID-19 and disbelief in the effectiveness of the booster dose. In conclusion, the hesitancy toward booster doses in Indonesia is influenced by some intrinsic factors such as lack of knowledge on the benefits of the booster dose, worries regarding the unexpected side effects and concerns about the halal status of the provided vaccines and extrinsic determinants such as the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine. These findings suggest the need for more campaigns and promotions regarding the booster dose benefits to increase its acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harapan Harapan
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Tsunami and Disaster Mitigation Research Center (TDMRC), Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Raisha Fathima
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Hendrix Indra Kusuma
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Biology Education Department, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, Universitas Islam Negeri Ar-Raniry, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Samsul Anwar
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Widhy Yudistira Nalapraya
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Islam Bandung, Bandung 40116, Indonesia
| | - Adityo Wibowo
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Lampung, Bandar Lampung 35145, Indonesia
| | - Ketut Dewi Kumara Wati
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Udayana, Denpasar 80234, Indonesia
| | - Ayunda Medina
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | | | - Yesi Astri
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muhammadiyah Palembang, Palembang 30263, Indonesia
| | | | - Nurfarahin Nurfarahin
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Afriyani Khusna
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Setya Oktariana
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Sarifuddin Anwar
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tadulako University, Palu 94148, Indonesia
| | - Milza Oka Yussar
- Faculty of Public Health, University Muhammadiyah Aceh, Banda Aceh 23245, Indonesia
| | - Siti Khotimah
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Medical Faculty of Mulawarman University, Samarinda 75119, Indonesia
| | | | - Putri Rizki Amalia Badri
- Public Health Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muhammadiyah Palembang, Palembang 30263, Indonesia
| | - Raden Argarini
- Department of Medical Physiology and Biochemistry, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60132, Indonesia
| | - Wira Winardi
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Rosaria Indah
- Medical Education Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
| | - Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Yogambigai Rajamoorthy
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Accountancy and Management, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kuala Lumpur 43200, Malaysia
| | - Abram L. Wagner
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Mudatsir Mudatsir
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh 23111, Indonesia
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22
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Tan LJ, Koh CP, Lai SK, Poh WC, Othman MS, Hussin H. A systemic review and recommendation for an autopsy approach to death followed the COVID 19 vaccination. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 340:111469. [PMID: 36162300 PMCID: PMC9487151 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) started in December 2019. An immediate prevention approach for the outbreak is the development of a vaccination program. Despite a growing number of publications showing the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing SARS-CoV-2 outbreak and reducing the mortality rate, substantial fatal adverse effects were reported after vaccination. Confirmation of the causal relationship of death is required to reimburse under the national vaccination program and could provide a reference for the selection of vaccination. However, a lack of guidelines in the laboratory study and autopsy approach hampered the investigation of post-vaccination death. In this paper, we performed a systematic electronic search on scientific articles related to severe Covid-19 vaccination adverse effects and approaches in identifying the severe side effects using PubMed and Cochrane libraries. A summary on the onset, biochemistry changes and histopathological analyzes of major lethally side effects post-vaccination were discussed. Ultimately, a checklist is suggested to improve the quality of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lii Jye Tan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia.
| | - Cai Ping Koh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University, Malaysia
| | - Shau Kong Lai
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
| | - Woon Cheng Poh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Shafie Othman
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan, Malaysia
| | - Huzlinda Hussin
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
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23
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Suzuki H, Ro A, Takada A, Saito K, Hayashi K. Autopsy findings of post-COVID-19 vaccination deaths in Tokyo Metropolis, Japan, 2021. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2022; 59:102134. [PMID: 36037554 PMCID: PMC9392553 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2022.102134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 vaccines have been used across Japan since 17 February 2021, and as of 17 April 2022, 1690 deaths potentially caused by vaccine-related adverse effects have been reported to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. However, the causal relationship between vaccination and death could not be fully evaluated because of a lack of sufficient information. METHODS Autopsy cases in which deaths occurred within seven days after COVID-19 vaccination in Tokyo Metropolis and were handled by medical examiners were selected (n = 54). Age, sex, vaccine-related information, cause of death, and possible causal relationship between vaccination and death were examined. RESULTS The mean age of the deceased individuals was 68.1 years, and the study sample consisted of 34 males (63.9%) and 20 females (37.0%). Thirty-seven and six individuals received Comirnaty and Spikevax, respectively (68.5% and 11.1% respectively). The manner of death included natural (n = 43), non-natural (n = 8), and undetermined (n = 3). The most frequent cause of death was ischemic heart disease (n = 16). Regarding causal relationships, 46 cases (85.2%) did not show a causal relationship to vaccination, except for myocarditis (n = 3), thrombosis-related death (n = 4), and others (n = 1). CONCLUSION Although many cases of deaths after COVID-19 vaccination in this study showed no definite causal relationship between the vaccination and deaths, some cases showed possible adverse events such as myocarditis. Autopsies are essential for detecting vaccine-related deaths, and the Japanese death investigation system needs to be reinforced from this viewpoint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideto Suzuki
- Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo, Japan. hideto-@qk9.so-net.ne.jp
| | - Ayako Ro
- Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Legal Medicine, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Aya Takada
- Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Forensic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan; Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuyuki Saito
- Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Forensic Medicine, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan; Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kino Hayashi
- Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Tokyo, Japan
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24
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Murata K, Nakao N, Ishiuchi N, Fukui T, Katsuya N, Fukumoto W, Oka H, Yoshikawa N, Nagao T, Namera A, Kakimoto N, Oue N, Awai K, Yoshimoto K, Nagao M. Four cases of cytokine storm after COVID-19 vaccination: Case report. Front Immunol 2022; 13:967226. [PMID: 36045681 PMCID: PMC9420842 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.967226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to the rapid development of vaccines against this disease. Despite the success of the international vaccination program, adverse events following vaccination, and the mechanisms behind them, remain poorly understood. Here we present four cases of death following receipt of a second dose of COVID-19 vaccine, with no obvious cause identified at autopsy. Using RNA sequencing, we identified genes that were differentially expressed between our post-vaccination cases and a control group that died of blood loss and strangulation. Three hundred and ninety genes were found to be upregulated and 115 genes were downregulated in post-vaccination cases compared with controls. Importantly, genes involved in neutrophil degranulation and cytokine signaling were upregulated. Our results suggest that immune dysregulation occurred following vaccination. Careful observation and care may be necessary if an abnormally high fever exceeding 40°C occurs after vaccination, even with antipyretic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Murata
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naoki Nakao
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naoki Ishiuchi
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takafumi Fukui
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Narutaka Katsuya
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Wataru Fukumoto
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroko Oka
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naotaka Yoshikawa
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takafumi Nagao
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akira Namera
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naoya Kakimoto
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naohide Oue
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuo Awai
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kanji Yoshimoto
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Food Sciences and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Hiroshima Institute of Technology, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masataka Nagao
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- *Correspondence: Masataka Nagao,
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25
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Kawano H, Motokawa T, Kurohama H, Okano S, Akashi R, Yonekura T, Ikeda S, Izumikawa K, Maemura K. Fulminant Myocarditis 24 Days after Coronavirus Disease Messenger Ribonucleic Acid Vaccination. Intern Med 2022; 61:2319-2325. [PMID: 35650138 PMCID: PMC9424077 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.9800-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A 60-year-old Japanese woman was hospitalized for cardiogenic shock 24 days after receiving the second dose of the coronavirus disease 2019 BNT162b2 vaccine. Impella CP left ventricular assist device implantation and venoarterial peripheral extracorporeal membranous oxygenation were immediately initiated along with inotropic support and steroid pulse therapy, as an endomyocardial biopsy specimen showed myocarditis. Three weeks later, her cardiac function had recovered, and she was discharged. An immune response associated with the presence of spike protein in cardiac myocytes may be related to myocarditis in the present case because of positive immunostaining for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike protein and C4d in the myocardium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroaki Kawano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Tetsufumi Motokawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | | | - Shinji Okano
- Department of Pathology, Nagasaki University Hospital, Japan
| | - Ryohei Akashi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Yonekura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Satoshi Ikeda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
| | - Koichi Izumikawa
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, Japan
| | - Koji Maemura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Japan
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26
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Baronti A, Gentile F, Manetti AC, Scatena A, Pellegrini S, Pucci A, Franzini M, Castiglione V, Maiese A, Giannoni A, Pistello M, Emdin M, Aquaro GD, Di Paolo M. Myocardial Infarction Following COVID-19 Vaccine Administration: Post Hoc, Ergo Propter Hoc? Viruses 2022; 14:v14081644. [PMID: 36016266 PMCID: PMC9413746 DOI: 10.3390/v14081644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the safest and most effective strategy for controlling the pandemic. However, some cases of acute cardiac events following vaccine administration have been reported, including myocarditis and myocardial infarction (MI). While post-vaccine myocarditis has been widely discussed, information about post-vaccine MI is scarce and heterogenous, often lacking in histopathological and pathophysiological details. We hereby present five cases (four men, mean age 64 years, range 50–76) of sudden death secondary to MI and tightly temporally related to COVID-19 vaccination. In each case, comprehensive macro- and microscopic pathological analyses were performed, including post-mortem cardiac magnetic resonance, to ascertain the cause of death. To investigate the pathophysiological determinants of MI, toxicological and tryptase analyses were performed, yielding negative results, while the absence of anti-platelet factor 4 antibodies ruled out vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia. Finally, genetic testing disclosed that all subjects were carriers of at least one pro-thrombotic mutation. Although the presented cases do not allow us to establish any causative relation, they should foster further research to investigate the possible link between COVID-19 vaccination, pro-thrombotic genotypes, and acute cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Baronti
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Francesco Gentile
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.G.); (V.C.); (A.G.); (G.D.A.)
| | - Alice Chiara Manetti
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Andrea Scatena
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Silvia Pellegrini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Angela Pucci
- Department of Histopathology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Maria Franzini
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Castiglione
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.G.); (V.C.); (A.G.); (G.D.A.)
- Health Science Interdisciplinary Center, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Aniello Maiese
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Alberto Giannoni
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.G.); (V.C.); (A.G.); (G.D.A.)
- Health Science Interdisciplinary Center, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Mauro Pistello
- Retrovirus Center and Virology Section, Department of Translational Research, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Michele Emdin
- Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.G.); (V.C.); (A.G.); (G.D.A.)
- Health Science Interdisciplinary Center, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: or
| | | | - Marco Di Paolo
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (A.S.); (A.M.); (M.D.P.)
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Federspiel JM, Ramsthaler F, Kettner M, Mall G. Diagnostics of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) severe acute respiratory syndrome-corona virus‑2 (SARS-CoV‑2) vaccination-associated myocarditis—A systematic review. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2022; 33:125-131. [PMID: 35873498 PMCID: PMC9297279 DOI: 10.1007/s00194-022-00587-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Objective Methods Results Conclusion Supplementary Information
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M. Federspiel
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Saarland University, Campus Homburg, Kirrbergerstraße, Geb. 49.1, 66421 Homburg Saar, Germany
| | - Frank Ramsthaler
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Saarland University, Campus Homburg, Kirrbergerstraße, Geb. 49.1, 66421 Homburg Saar, Germany
| | - Mattias Kettner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt Main, Kennedyallee 104, 60596 Frankfurt Main, Germany
| | - Gerhard Mall
- Medical Care Center for Clinical Pathology, Grafenstraße 9, 64283 Darmstadt, Germany
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28
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Current Evidence in SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccines and Post-Vaccination Adverse Reports: Knowns and Unknowns. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12071555. [PMID: 35885461 PMCID: PMC9316835 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12071555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel mRNA vaccinations against COVID-19 are gaining worldwide attention for their potential efficacy, as well as for the diagnosis of some post-vaccination-reported adverse reactions. In this state-of-the-art review article, we present the current evidence regarding mainly the diagnosis of spontaneous allergic reactions, the skin occurrences, the vascular, blood, endocrine and heart events, the respiratory reports, the gastrointestinal, hepatic and kidney events, the reproductive and pregnancy issues and the muscle events, as well as the ear, eye, neurologic and psychiatric events following mRNA vaccination against COVID-19. We further present some evidence regarding the mRNA strategies, we provide important information for side effects associated with the spike protein based LNP-mRNA vaccine and its adjuvants, as well as evidence for all the possible dangerous roles of the spike protein, and we discuss our expert opinion on the knowns and the unknowns towards the topic.
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29
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Leowattana W, Leowattana T. COVID-19 vaccination and cardiac dysfunction. World J Cardiol 2022; 14:343-354. [PMID: 35979182 PMCID: PMC9258225 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v14.i6.343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccine against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections has reduced the number of symptomatic patients globally. A case series of vaccine-related myocarditis or pericarditis has been published with extensive vaccination, most notably in teenagers and young adults. Men seem to be impacted more often, and symptoms commonly occur within 1 wk after immunization. The clinical course is mild in the majority of cases. Based on the evidence, a clinical framework to guide physicians to examine, analyze, identify, and report suspected and confirmed cardiac dysfunction cases is needed. A standardized workup for every patient with strongly suspicious symptoms associated with the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine comprises serum cardiac troponin measurement and a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). For patients with unexplained elevation of cardiac troponin and pathologic ECG, echocardiography is recommended. Consultation with a cardiovascular expert and hospitalization should be considered in this group of patients. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and supportive. Deferring a 2nd dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in individuals with suspected myocarditis or pericarditis after the 1st dose is suggested until further safety data become available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wattana Leowattana
- Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Tawithep Leowattana
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
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30
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Wong CKH, Lau KTK, Xiong X, Au ICH, Lai FTT, Wan EYF, Chui CSL, Li X, Chan EWY, Gao L, Cheng FWT, Tang SCW, Wong ICK. Adverse events of special interest and mortality following vaccination with mRNA (BNT162b2) and inactivated (CoronaVac) SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in Hong Kong: A retrospective study. PLoS Med 2022; 19:e1004018. [PMID: 35727759 PMCID: PMC9212142 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Safety monitoring of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines is crucial during mass vaccination rollout to inform the choice of vaccines and reduce vaccine hesitancy. Considering the scant evidence directly comparing the safety profiles of mRNA and inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, this territory-wide cohort study aims to compare the incidence of various adverse events of special interest (AESIs) and all-cause mortality between CoronaVac (inactivated vaccine) and BNT162b2 (mRNA-based vaccine). Our results can help vaccine recipients make an informed choice. METHODS AND FINDINGS A retrospective, population-based cohort of individuals who had received at least 1 dose of BNT162b2 or CoronaVac from 23 February to 9 September 2021 in Hong Kong, and had data linkage to the electronic medical records of the Hong Kong Hospital Authority, were included. Those who had received mixed doses were excluded. Individuals were observed from the date of vaccination (first or second dose) until mortality, second dose vaccination (for first dose analysis), 21 days after vaccination, or 30 September 2021, whichever came first. Baseline characteristics of vaccinated individuals were balanced between groups using propensity score weighting. Outcome events were AESIs and all-cause mortality recorded during 21 days of post-vaccination follow-up after each dose, except anaphylaxis, for which the observation period was restricted to 2 days after each dose. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of AESIs and mortality comparing between CoronaVac and BNT162b2 recipients were estimated after each dose using Poisson regression models. Among 2,333,379 vaccinated individuals aged 18 years or above, the first dose analysis included 1,308,820 BNT162b2 and 955,859 CoronaVac recipients, while the second dose analysis included 1,116,677 and 821,560 individuals, respectively. The most frequently reported AESI among CoronaVac and BNT162b2 recipients was thromboembolism (first dose: 431 and 290 per 100,000 person-years; second dose: 385 and 266 per 100,000 person-years). After the first dose, incidence rates of overall AESIs (IRR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.89-1.08, p = 0.703) and mortality (IRR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.63-1.48, p = 0.868) associated with CoronaVac were generally comparable to those for BNT162b2, except for Bell palsy (IRR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.12-3.41, p = 0.018), anaphylaxis (IRR = 0.34, 95% CI 0.14-0.79, p = 0.012), and sleeping disturbance or disorder (IRR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.49-0.89, p = 0.006). After the second dose, incidence rates of overall AESIs (IRR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.87-1.08, p = 0.545) and mortality (IRR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.51-1.40, p = 0.516) were comparable between CoronaVac and BNT162b2 recipients, with no significant differences observed for specific AESIs. The main limitations of this study include residual confounding due to its observational nature, and the possibility of its being underpowered for some AESIs with very low observed incidences. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we observed that the incidences of AESIs (cumulative incidence rate of 0.06%-0.09%) and mortality following the first and second doses of CoronaVac and BNT162b2 vaccination were very low. The safety profiles of the vaccines were generally comparable, except for a significantly higher incidence rate of Bell palsy, but lower incidence rates of anaphylaxis and sleeping disturbance or disorder, following first dose CoronaVac versus BNT162b2 vaccination. Our results could help inform the choice of inactivated COVID-19 vaccines, mainly administered in low- and middle-income countries with large populations, in comparison to the safety of mRNA vaccines. Long-term surveillance on the safety profile of COVID-19 vaccines should continue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos King Ho Wong
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kristy Tsz Kwan Lau
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xi Xiong
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ivan Chi Ho Au
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Francisco Tsz Tsun Lai
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Eric Yuk Fai Wan
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Celine Sze Ling Chui
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Nursing, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xue Li
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Esther Wai Yin Chan
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Le Gao
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Franco Wing Tak Cheng
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sydney Chi Wai Tang
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ian Chi Kei Wong
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Medicines Optimisation Research and Education, Research Department of Practice and Policy, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Lane S, Yeomans A, Shakir S. Reports of myocarditis and pericarditis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination: a systematic review of spontaneously reported data from the UK, Europe and the USA and of the scientific literature. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e059223. [PMID: 35613761 PMCID: PMC9133727 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-059223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To combine spontaneously reported data from multiple countries to estimate reporting rate, and better understand risk factors for myocarditis and pericarditis following COVID-19 messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. DESIGN Systematic review of spontaneously reported data from UK, USA and European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) and of the scientific literature. DATA SOURCES UK Yellow Card scheme, Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), EudraVigilance were searched from date of vaccine launch to 14 March 2022-16 March 2022. PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase were searched to 15 March 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included publicly available spontaneous reporting data for 'Myocarditis' and 'Pericarditis' from UK, USA and EU/EEA following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Pharmacoepidemiological observational studies investigating myocarditis/pericarditis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccines were included (no restrictions on language or date). Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tools assessed study quality. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two researchers extracted data. Events of myocarditis and pericarditis were presented for each data source, stratified by vaccine, age, sex and dose (where available). Reporting rates were calculated for myocarditis and pericarditis for each population. For published pharmacoepidemiological studies, design, participant characteristics, and study results were tabulated. RESULTS Overall, 18 204 myocarditis and pericarditis events were submitted to the UK, USA and EU/EEA regulators during the study period. Males represented 62.24% (n=11 331) of myocarditis and pericarditis reports. In the UK and USA, most reports concerned vaccinees aged <40 years (59.7% and 47.3% of reported events, respectively); trends in age were less clear for EU/EEA. Reports were more frequent following a second dose (47.1% of reports, where data available). Reporting rates were consistent between the data sources. Thirty-two pharmacoepidemiological studies were included; results were consistent with our spontaneous report analyses. CONCLUSIONS Younger vaccinees more frequently report myocarditis and pericarditis following mRNA COVID-19 vaccines than older vaccinees. Results from published literature supported the results of our analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Lane
- Drug Safety Research Unit, Southampton, UK
- University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
| | | | - Saad Shakir
- Drug Safety Research Unit, Southampton, UK
- University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
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Garcia C, Compagnon B, Poëtte M, Gratacap MP, Lapébie FX, Voisin S, Minville V, Payrastre B, Vardon-Bounes F, Ribes A. Platelet Versus Megakaryocyte: Who Is the Real Bandleader of Thromboinflammation in Sepsis? Cells 2022; 11:1507. [PMID: 35563812 PMCID: PMC9104300 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Platelets are mainly known for their key role in hemostasis and thrombosis. However, studies over the last two decades have shown their strong implication in mechanisms associated with inflammation, thrombosis, and the immune system in various neoplastic, inflammatory, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. During sepsis, platelets amplify the recruitment and activation of innate immune cells at the site of infection and contribute to the elimination of pathogens. In certain conditions, these mechanisms can lead to thromboinflammation resulting in severe organ dysfunction. Here, we discuss the interactions of platelets with leukocytes, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and endothelial cells during sepsis. The intrinsic properties of platelets that generate an inflammatory signal through the NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome are discussed. As an example of immunothrombosis, the implication of platelets in vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia is documented. Finally, we discuss the role of megakaryocytes (MKs) in thromboinflammation and their adaptive responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cédric Garcia
- Laboratoire d’Hématologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France; (C.G.); (S.V.); (B.P.)
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Inserm UMR1297 and Université Toulouse 3, 31024 Toulouse, France; (B.C.); (M.P.); (M.-P.G.); (F.V.-B.)
| | - Baptiste Compagnon
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Inserm UMR1297 and Université Toulouse 3, 31024 Toulouse, France; (B.C.); (M.P.); (M.-P.G.); (F.V.-B.)
- Pôle Anesthésie-Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France;
| | - Michaël Poëtte
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Inserm UMR1297 and Université Toulouse 3, 31024 Toulouse, France; (B.C.); (M.P.); (M.-P.G.); (F.V.-B.)
- Pôle Anesthésie-Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France;
| | - Marie-Pierre Gratacap
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Inserm UMR1297 and Université Toulouse 3, 31024 Toulouse, France; (B.C.); (M.P.); (M.-P.G.); (F.V.-B.)
| | - François-Xavier Lapébie
- Service de Médecine Vasculaire, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France;
| | - Sophie Voisin
- Laboratoire d’Hématologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France; (C.G.); (S.V.); (B.P.)
| | - Vincent Minville
- Pôle Anesthésie-Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France;
| | - Bernard Payrastre
- Laboratoire d’Hématologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France; (C.G.); (S.V.); (B.P.)
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Inserm UMR1297 and Université Toulouse 3, 31024 Toulouse, France; (B.C.); (M.P.); (M.-P.G.); (F.V.-B.)
| | - Fanny Vardon-Bounes
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Inserm UMR1297 and Université Toulouse 3, 31024 Toulouse, France; (B.C.); (M.P.); (M.-P.G.); (F.V.-B.)
- Pôle Anesthésie-Réanimation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France;
| | - Agnès Ribes
- Laboratoire d’Hématologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, 31059 Toulouse, France; (C.G.); (S.V.); (B.P.)
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, Inserm UMR1297 and Université Toulouse 3, 31024 Toulouse, France; (B.C.); (M.P.); (M.-P.G.); (F.V.-B.)
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Myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccination in adolescents and adults: a cumulative experience of 2021. Heart Fail Rev 2022; 27:2033-2043. [PMID: 35449353 PMCID: PMC9023259 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-022-10243-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Clinical course and outcomes of myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination remain variable. We retrospectively collected data on patients > 12 years old from 01/01/2021 to 12/30/2021 who received COVID-19 messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccination and were diagnosed with myocarditis within 60 days of vaccination. Myocarditis cases were based on case definitions by authors. We report on 238 patients of whom most were male (n = 208; 87.1%). The mean age was 27.4 ± 16 (range 12–80) years. Females presented at older ages (41.3 ± 21.5 years) than men 25.7 ± 14 years (p = 0.001). In patients > 20 years of age, the mean duration from vaccination to symptoms was 4.8 days ± 5.5 days, but in < 20, it was 3.0 ± 3.3 days (p = 0.04). Myocarditis occurred most commonly after the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine (n = 183; 76.45) and after the second dose (n = 182; 80%). Symptoms started 3.95 ± 4.5 days after vaccination. The commonest symptom was chest pain (n = 221; 93%). Patients were treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (n = 105; 58.3%), colchicine (n = 38; 21.1%), or glucocorticoids (n = 23; 12.7%). About 30% of the patients had left ventricular ejection fraction but more than half recovered the on repeat imaging. Abnormal cardiac MRIs were common; 168 patients (96% of 175 patients that had MRI) had late gadolinium enhancement, while 120 patients (68.5%) had myocardial edema. Heart failure guideline-directed medical therapy use was common (n = 27; 15%). Eleven patients had cardiogenic shock; and 4 patients required mechanical circulatory support. Five patients (1.7%) died; of these, 3 patients had endomyocardial biopsy/autopsy-confirmed myocarditis. Most cases of COVID-19 vaccine myocarditis are mild. Females presented at older ages than men and duration from vaccination to symptoms was longer in patients > 20 years. Cardiogenic shock requiring mechanical circulatory support was seen and mortality was low. Future studies are needed to better evaluate risk factors, and long-term outcomes of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine myocarditis.
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Won T, Gilotra NA, Wood MK, Hughes DM, Talor MV, Lovell J, Milstone AM, Steenbergen C, Čiháková D. Increased Interleukin 18-Dependent Immune Responses Are Associated With Myopericarditis After COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination. Front Immunol 2022; 13:851620. [PMID: 35251049 PMCID: PMC8894592 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.851620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocarditis and myopericarditis may occur after COVID-19 vaccination with an incidence of two to twenty cases per 100,000 individuals, but underlying mechanisms related to disease onset and progression remain unclear. Here, we report a case of myopericarditis following the first dose of the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine in a young man who had a history of mild COVID-19 three months before vaccination. The patient presented with chest pain, elevated troponin I level, and electrocardiogram abnormality. His endomyocardial biopsy revealed diffuse CD68+ cell infiltration. We characterized the immune profile of the patient using multiplex cytokine assay and flow cytometry analysis. Sex-matched vaccinated individuals and healthy individuals were used as controls. IL-18 and IL-27, Th1-type cytokines, were highly increased in the patient with COVID-19 vaccine-related myopericarditis compared with vaccinated controls who experienced no cardiac complications. In the patient, circulating NK cells and T cells showed an activated phenotype and mRNA profile, and monocytes expressed increased levels of IL-18 and its upstream NLRP3 inflammasome. We found that recombinant IL-18 administration into mice caused mild cardiac dysfunction and activation of NK cells and T cells in the hearts, similar to the findings in the patient with myopericarditis after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. Collectively, myopericarditis following COVID-19 mRNA vaccination may be associated with increased IL-18-mediated immune responses and cardiotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taejoon Won
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nisha Aggarwal Gilotra
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Megan Kay Wood
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - David Matthew Hughes
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Monica Vladut Talor
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jana Lovell
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Aaron Michael Milstone
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Charles Steenbergen
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Daniela Čiháková
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Daniela Čiháková, ; orcid.org/0000-0002-8713-2860
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Maiese A, Baronti A, Manetti AC, Di Paolo M, Turillazzi E, Frati P, Fineschi V. Death after the Administration of COVID-19 Vaccines Approved by EMA: Has a Causal Relationship Been Demonstrated? Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:308. [PMID: 35214765 PMCID: PMC8875435 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10020308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
More than eight billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered globally so far and 44.29% of people are fully vaccinated. Pre-authorization clinical trials were carried out and the safety of vaccines is still continuously monitored through post-commercialization surveillance. However, some people are afraid of vaccine side effects, claiming they could lead to death, and hesitate to get vaccinated. Herein, a literature review of COVID-19-vaccine-related deaths has been carried out according to the PRISMA standards to understand if there is a causal relationship between vaccination and death and to highlight the real extent of such events. There have been 55 cases of death after COVID-19 vaccination reported and a causal relationship has been excluded in 17 cases. In the remaining cases, the causal link between the vaccine and the death was not specified (8) or considered possible (15), probable (1), or very probable/demonstrated (14). The causes of deaths among these cases were: vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) (32), myocarditis (3), ADEM (1), myocardial infarction (1), and rhabdomyolysis (1). In such cases, the demonstration of a causal relationship is not obvious, and more studies, especially with post-mortem investigations, are needed to deepen understanding of the possible pathophysiological mechanisms of fatal vaccine side effects. In any event, given the scarcity of fatal cases, the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks and the scientific community needs to be cohesive in asserting that vaccination is fundamental to containing the spread of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniello Maiese
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (M.D.P.); (E.T.)
| | - Arianna Baronti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (M.D.P.); (E.T.)
| | - Alice Chiara Manetti
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (M.D.P.); (E.T.)
| | - Marco Di Paolo
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (M.D.P.); (E.T.)
| | - Emanuela Turillazzi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.); (A.B.); (A.C.M.); (M.D.P.); (E.T.)
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy;
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Esposito M, Salerno M, Scoto E, Di Nunno N, Sessa F. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Practice of Forensic Medicine: An Overview. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:319. [PMID: 35206933 PMCID: PMC8871677 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10020319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, forensic sciences, on the one hand, contributed to gaining knowledge about different aspects of the pandemic, while on the other hand, forensic professionals were called on to quickly adapt their activities to respond adequately to the changes imposed by the pandemic. This review aims to clarify the state of the art in forensic medicine at the time of COVID-19, discussing the following: the influence of external factors on forensic activities, the impact of autopsy practice on COVID-19 and vice-versa, the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in post-mortem samples, forensic personnel activities during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the global vaccination program and forensic sciences, forensic undergraduate education during and after the imposed COVID-19 lockdown, and the medico-legal implications in medical malpractice claims during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly influenced different aspects of human life, and, accordingly, the practical activities of forensic sciences that are defined as multidisciplinary, involving different expertise. Indeed, the activities are very different, including crime scene investigation (CSI), external examination, autopsy, and genetic and toxicological examinations of tissues and/or biological fluids. At the same time, forensic professionals may have direct contact with subjects in life, such as in the case of abuse victims (in some cases involving children), collecting biological samples from suspects, or visiting subjects in the case of physical examinations. In this scenario, forensic professionals are called on to implement methods to prevent the SARS-CoV-2 infection risk, wearing adequate PPE, and working in environments with a reduced risk of infection. Consequently, in the pandemic era, the costs involved for forensic sciences were substantially increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Esposito
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (M.S.); (E.S.)
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (M.S.); (E.S.)
| | - Edmondo Scoto
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (M.S.); (E.S.)
| | - Nunzio Di Nunno
- Department of History, Society and Studies on Humanity, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
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Sessa F, Salerno M, Esposito M, Di Nunno N, Zamboni P, Pomara C. Autopsy Findings and Causality Relationship between Death and COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10245876. [PMID: 34945172 PMCID: PMC8709364 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10245876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The current challenge worldwide is the administration of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine. Considering that the COVID-19 vaccination represents the best possibility to resolve this pandemic, this systematic review aims to clarify the major aspects of fatal adverse effects related to COVID-19 vaccines, with the goal of advancing our knowledge, supporting decisions, or suggesting changes in policies at local, regional, and global levels. Moreover, this review aims to provide key recommendations to improve awareness of vaccine safety. All studies published up to 2 December 2021 were searched using the following keywords: “COVID-19 Vaccine”, “SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine”, “COVID-19 Vaccination”, “SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination”, and “Autopsy” or “Post-mortem”. We included 17 papers published with fatal cases with post-mortem investigations. A total of 38 cases were analyzed: 22 cases were related to ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 administration, 10 cases to BNT162b2, 4 cases to mRNA-1273, and 2 cases to Ad26.COV2.S. Based on these data, autopsy is very useful to define the main characteristics of the so-called vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) after ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination: recurrent findings were intracranial hemorrhage and diffused microthrombi located in multiple areas. Moreover, it is fundamental to provide evidence about myocarditis related to the BNT162B2 vaccine. Finally, based on the discussed data, we suggest several key recommendations to improve awareness of vaccine safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.S.); (M.E.)
| | - Massimiliano Esposito
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.S.); (M.E.)
| | - Nunzio Di Nunno
- Department of History, Society and Studies on Humanity, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Paolo Zamboni
- Vascular Diseases Center, Hub Center for Venous and Lymphatic Diseases Regione Emilia-Romagna, Sant’Anna University Hospital of Ferrara, 44121 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Cristoforo Pomara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.S.); (M.E.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-095-3782-153 or +39-333-2466-148
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Evaluating Rates and Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy for Adults and Children in the Singapore Population: Strengthening Our Community's Resilience against Threats from Emerging Infections (SOCRATEs) Cohort. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9121415. [PMID: 34960161 PMCID: PMC8705614 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9121415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines are crucial for achieving sufficient immunisation coverage to manage the pandemic, but vaccine hesitancy persists. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and determinants of vaccine hesitancy in adults and in parents for vaccinating their children using an integrated social cognition model. A community-based cohort in Singapore [N = 1623] completed a survey (wave 25) between June and July 2021 which measured their risk perceptions, distress, trust, vaccination beliefs, and vaccine intentions/behaviours. Results indicated low rates of hesitancy (9.9%) for own vaccination, with most concerns citing side effects, safety, and hasty development. Remaining respondents were vaccinated (69%) or intended to vaccinate (21%). The multivariable model (non-vaccinated respondents) indicated that, living with people in poor health, subjective norm, moral norm, benefits, and necessity of vaccination were associated with lower vaccine hesitancy (R2 Cox & Snell: 51.4%; p < 0.001). Hesitancy rates were higher for children’s vaccination (15.9%), with male gender, lower perceived vaccine benefits, high COVID-19 risk perceptions, vaccination concerns, and necessity beliefs associated with higher odds of parental vaccine hesitancy (R2 Cox & Snell = 36.4%; p < 0.001). While levels of vaccine acceptance are high, more targeted messages are needed. For adults’ vaccination, more emphasis should be on benefits and social gains, while for parental hesitancy, messages related to safety should be prioritised.
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Factors Influencing Vaccine Hesitancy in China: A Qualitative Study. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9111291. [PMID: 34835221 PMCID: PMC8622488 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy has become a significant issue. We aimed to elucidate the factors influencing vaccine hesitation in Chinese residents and to analyze and recommend promotional strategies and measures. In total, 92 Chinese residents from 10 provinces were interviewed using semi-structured face-to-face interviews following a predetermined survey framework in this qualitative study. We found trust in vaccine safety, access to professional advice, and vaccine price and effectiveness to be the main factors influencing vaccine hesitation. Additionally, residents in areas with a higher per capita GDP tend to receive more social support, believe that vaccination is beneficial and can prevent diseases, pay more attention to whether the vaccine is safe and has undergone various clinical trials, and are more likely to seek advice from individuals with vaccination experience as opposed to their counterparts in areas with a lower per capita GDP. Notably, as per capita GDP rises, individuals become more concerned about the price of vaccines. Measures such as clarifying vaccine safety and effectiveness, reducing self-funded vaccine prices, offering free vaccination for special groups, strengthening the publicity role of medical staff, and taking advantage of network platforms are essential to reduce vaccine hesitancy among Chinese residents.
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